Johnston County Public Schools Celebrates National Principals Month

SMITHFIELD – October is National Principals Month, and Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing principals who lead our schools. The dedication, passion, and commitment they all share shape the educational experiences of the students, and foster positive school cultures.

Melissa Hubbard, principal of Clayton High smiles while talking to a child at Riverwood Elementary as part of her classroom walkthrough at the October principals symposium.

Each day, our principals motivate teachers, staff, and students to pursue excellence. They navigate challenges with grace and create environments where every student thrives. Receiving recognition for their work is never sought, however, for most, the recognition was well received. “The enormous support at the national level and from the school district has been great,” said JC Early College Academy Principal Robert Daniels. “The support motivates school leaders to continue to excel, personally and professionally.”

(From left): Riverwood Middle Principal Monica Sawyer and Lorna Jones, Executive Director of School Improvement Support share ideas during a round table discussion.

Daniels is one of 48 principals recognized during this year’s national observance. During the October principals meeting, the school district recognized all principals for their leadership which has impacted the overall academic success of JCPS.

In honor of National Principals Month, JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric C. Bracy thanks and congratulates principals for their roles in the school district’s academic success.

JCPS Principals recognized are: Matt Johnson (Archer Lodge Middle), Dr. Takicey Dunston (Benson Elementary), Dr. Dana Jernigan (Benson Middle), Dr. Choya Boykin (Choice Plus Academy), Melissa Hubbard (Clayton High), Sandra Morris (Clayton Middle), Dr. Ryan Ewell (Cleveland Elementary), Chenetra Mangum (Cleveland Middle), Jenna Sauls Hairr (Cleveland High), Jamie Stoke (Cooper Academy), Melisssa Hurst (Corinth Holders High), Michelle Butler (Corinth-Holders Elementary), Dr. Angela Hill (Dixon Road Elementary), Lauren Sabo (East Clayton Elementary), TJ Parrish (Four Oaks Elementary), Lauren Watkins (Four Oaks Middle), Kelly Holland (Glendale-Kenly Elementary), Elizabeth Patton (Innovation Academy), Sheila Singleton (JC Career & Technical Leadership Academy), Robert Daniels (JC Early College Academy), Lyndsey Dunn (McGee’s Crossroads Elementary), Larkeysha Sheppard (McGee’s Crossroads Middle), Clint Eaves (Meadow School), Carson Cataliotti (Micro Elementary), Belinda Proctor (North Johnston High), Heather Anders (North Johnston Middle), Allen Sasser (Pine Level Elementary), Tami Poland (Polenta Elementary), Dan Kerwin (Powhatan Elementary), Jarvis Ellis (Princeton/Middle High), Jenny Durko (River Dell Elementary), Monica Sawyer (Riverwood Middle), Leigh White (Riverwood Elementary), Maritza Rosado (Selma Elementary), Stephen Baker (Selma Middle), Crystal Gregory (Smithfield-Selma High), William Weaver (South Johnston High), Chad McLamb (South Smithfield Elementary), LaShunda Faison (Smithfield Middle), Dr. Kerri Evans (Swift Creek Middle), Chad Jewett (Thanksgiving Elementary), Joy Bryant (Virtual Academy), Sarah Willoughby (West Clayton Elementary), Jennifer Swartz (West Johnston High), Darrick McNeill (West Smithfield Elementary), David Hawks (West View Elementary), and Dondi Pate Holland (Wilson’s Mills Elementary).

Polenta Elementary Principal Tami Poland reads with a student during a classroom observation.

JCPS principals do a great job and are appreciated. Their leadership and tireless efforts make a profound difference in the lives of our students. JCPS is proud to take a moment to #ThankAPrincipal and show appreciation for their invaluable contributions to our schools and communities.

Johnston County Early College Academy Principal Robert Daniels (left) and South Johnston High Principal William Weaver discuss strategies for engaging students in their buildings.

In the words of Mr. Daniels, “JCPS is a great place to work!”