Character education remains a focus for Johnston County Public Schools, with the district recognizing students each month who demonstrate positive character traits. For February 2026, several students from different schools were acknowledged by the Johnston County Board of Education.
Casey “CJ” Denton, a fifth-grade student at Benson Elementary, was recognized for respect. According to his nomination, “Casey, better known as CJ Denton, exemplifies the character trait of respect and leads through his actions each day. He consistently shows kindness, compassion, and consideration toward classmates and teachers, always willing to help without being asked.”
Dylan Sandoval, an eighth-grader at Meadow School, received the award for self-discipline. His recognition stated: “Dylan is an exceptional student whose strong work ethic drives him to give his best every day. He consistently demonstrates dedication, responsibility, and perseverance in both academics and extracurricular activities, including Battle of the Books, All-County Band, Math Counts, Track, BETA Club, and as captain of the soccer team.”
Hallie Davis from Four Oaks Middle School was honored for courage. The school shared: “An 8th-grade student, Hallie consistently demonstrates courage by choosing what is right, even when it is difficult or when others take a different path. She stands by her beliefs with confidence, integrity, and respect for others… Her actions show that courage is often quiet, steady, and principled.”
Aidan Walker of South Johnston High was recognized for dependability. The statement read: “Aidan is a sophomore and an honor roll student enrolled in mostly honors classes. He serves on the South Johnston High Leadership Team and School Improvement Team… As a leader in the Air Force JROTC program… He also volunteers as the school mascot.”
Addison Wilkinson from Four Oaks Elementary received recognition for respect. According to her nomination: “Addison is a leader both inside and outside the classroom who consistently demonstrates respect, kindness, and responsibility… As a fifth-grade safety patrol leader… Addison’s positive leadership and strong character make her an outstanding role model.”
Maggie Wood from Benson Middle was nominated but not pictured; she was recognized for perseverance.
Johnston County Schools educates more than 37,000 students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade across its district facilities in North Carolina (official website). The district supports cultural diversity with families representing over 45 languages (official website) and offers advanced academic programs alongside arts and athletics (official website). Supported by community resources and state-of-the-art facilities (official website), Johnston County Schools continues its mission to empower students to succeed in a global society (official website).
