Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) is pleased to announce that Tami Poland has been named the principal of the district’s newest school, Swift Creek Elementary, which is set to open in the fall of 2025. Poland, who is currently the principal of Polenta Elementary School, has earned a reputation as a highly effective and visionary leader, driving remarkable academic growth and fostering a positive school environment for students, staff, and the community.
Poland’s leadership at Polenta Elementary has been marked by academic excellence and a strong commitment to student success. Under her guidance, Polenta Elementary has achieved notable academic progress, and her leadership has earned the school widespread recognition within the community and beyond.
Recently, Polenta Elementary was recognized as one of many JCPS schools to achieve noteworthy growth and success, going from having a “D” school performance grade of 54 to a “C” school performance grade of 67, just 3 points shy of a “B” after the 2023-2024 school year. Remarkably, the school has exceeded growth each year under Poland’s leadership, ranking in the top 20% across all NC schools in growth for all three years under her leadership.
Poland attributes the success to brilliant students, educators who are passionate about their profession, and collaborative support from leadership at all levels.
“We are thrilled to have Mrs. Poland lead our newest school as principal,” said Dr. Eric C. Bracy, JCPS Superintendent. “Her proven track record of success, her dedication to student achievement, and her ability to establish a sense of community make her an ideal leader for Swift Creek Elementary. We are confident that she will bring the same level of excellence that has been demonstrated at Polenta Elementary.”
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Swift Creek Elementary, and I am eager to partner with our community in creating a school where excellence is not just an aspiration but a daily reality for our students,” stated Poland. “Together, we will shape a learning environment that empowers our students, inspires our teachers, and engages our families, ensuring that every child’s educational journey is meaningful, exciting, and successful.”
Poland has been in education for 21 years, nine of which as a school-based administrator. A lifelong learner, Poland has earned several education degrees and certifications, including a Master of School Administration from North Carolina State University (2017) and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (1997). She is also Academically or Intellectually Gifted (AIG) certified.
Poland's appointment is part of JCPS's continued commitment to providing high-quality education for all students, and her leadership will play a key role in shaping the future success of the new school. Johnston County Public Schools looks forward to the exciting possibilities that Poland's leadership will bring to this new school and the continued success of the district as a whole.
Swift Creek Elementary is scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.
