JCPS names new elementary school

Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools

The Johnston County Board of Education voted to name the new elementary school, Swift Creek Elementary, at its January regular session meeting.

With the capacity for 939 students, the nearly 115,877 square foot building will serve students from Pre-K through Fifth grade. The state-of-the-art two-story design has an open, contemporary theme, and features a shared cafeteria, auditorium and gym space. It will also provide unique learning and work spaces conducive for academic and professional success.

"We're excited about this updated elementary design which focuses on safety, security and efficiency,” said JCPS Chief of Facility Design and Construction Brooks Moore. “Safety remained at the forefront of the conversations during the process.”

All schools throughout the district are experiencing capacity challenges due to the exponential growth in the area. Adding additional school facilities is a primary focus of the school system, government bodies and stakeholders.

"This is a large school by DPI standards and will help numerous adjacent overcapacity schools, accommodate strong growth in the area and eliminate up to 42 mobile classroom trailers,” said Moore.

Swift Creek Elementary will make an immediate impact by relieving overcrowding of Polenta, Cleveland, West View, McGee’s Crossroads, Dixon Road, Four Oaks and Wilson's Mills elementary schools.

Facilities such as the new Swift Creek Elementary school come to fruition through the collaborative efforts of the school system, local governing bodies and voting constituents.

“Our district is extremely fortunate to have an engaged support system, including constituents, Commissioners, community partners who support our students by presenting bond funding options and voting yes to the bond referendums,” said JCPS Superintendent Dr. Eric C. Bracy.

“Our district recognizes the challenges posed by overcrowding in our schools, and this new elementary school represents our community’s commitment to addressing these issues collectively. We are excited about the positive impact this school will have on our students, teachers, and the district at large."