Johnston Reporter

Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) held its Fall Special Recognition Celebration on January 30, 2025, at West Johnston High. The event acknowledged students and staff for achievements in academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, and other extraordinary accomplishments. Attendees included parents, families, community members, and the Johnston County Board of Education.

In the fine arts category, Smithfield-Selma High's Luis Perez Gonzales received first place in Beginning Proficiency at the JCPS High School All-County Honors Art Gallery. Other winners included Naomi Proctor and Keanu Guadalupe from West Johnston High for Intermediate and Advanced Proficiency respectively.

The NC State Fair Art Competition recognized several students from Smithfield-Selma High with placements in various categories. The JCPS High School All-County Honor Choir highlighted Ella Selah from Clayton High as a top scorer in Soprano 1.

In athletics, Codey Larkins from Clayton High participated in the East-West All-Star Football Game. Chris Serrano was named to the 4A All-State Men’s Soccer Team. Cleveland High's Ronalon Renwick participated in the Shrine Bowl.

For academic competitions, Benjamin Foxworth from Pine Level Elementary won first place overall in the 2024-2025 Elementary District Spelling Bee. In math contests, Sam McLeod from Innovation Academy secured first place individually at the MATHCOUNTS District Competition.

Additionally, Melissa Hurst of Corinth Holders High was honored as Principal of the Year for 2024-2025 while Shannon Pawlak of Riverwood Elementary was named Assistant Principal of the Year for 2023-2024.

The celebration showcased JCPS's commitment to recognizing outstanding contributions and successes across various fields within its schools.