The 2025-2026 academic year began on August 25 for Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS), with students and staff returning to all 49 campuses. Administrators, teachers, and faculty welcomed students as they arrived for the first day.
For seniors at West Johnston High School, including Lilli Long and Haylee Moore, the day marked their final first day in the district. “I’ll never forget all of the memories I’ve made with my friends,” Long said.
Swift Creek Elementary opened its doors for the first time, becoming JCPS’s 49th school. The new facility is nearly 116,000 square feet and features modern amenities for students and staff.
Cooper Academy completed a major expansion with an addition of more than 39,000 square feet. This project added 20 classrooms and increased capacity to 883 students. It also included an enclosed corridor that connects all campus buildings such as the cafeteria and gymnasium.
Cleveland High School received a new addition totaling over 33,000 square feet, which includes four science classrooms among its 20 new classrooms.
District officials expressed confidence that as everyone settles into the new school year, student and staff goals will be achieved.
