Johnson named Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year

Submitted by JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

SMITHFIELD — Madavia Johnson, a teacher at McGee’s Crossroads Middle School, was named Outstanding First Year Teacher of the Year by Johnston County Public Schools. Johnson is a seventh grade English language arts and social studies teacher.

Nominated by their administrators, each of the 34 candidates went through an interview process. Recently, all 34 nominees were celebrated with a special ceremony for them and their families at Selma Elementary School. Johnson was one of three finalists revealed at the event. The other two finalists were Laura Lasater, a teacher at Four Oaks Elementary School, and Justin Lee, a teacher at Four Oaks Middle School.

A first-year educator, Johnson was thrilled to receive the honor. “This award means a lot to me, because it is a reflection of my love and hard work that I put towards my students,” Johnson said. “I come in everyday with a positive attitude hoping to leave a lasting impact on them.”

In addition to the award, Johnson received $500 from Horace Mann.

Johnson is characterized by her peers as a passionate and interactive teacher who loves what she does, and loves the people she does it for, the children.

Originally from Columbus County, she began working with JCPS at the start of the 2022-2023 school year. Johnson earned a bachelor's degree in political science from North Carolina State University and a master’s degree in management information systems from North Carolina Central University.

During the event JCPS also named two semifinalists, Lasater and Lee. Lasater is a first grade teacher and an inspiration to her students and fellow staff. As a career and technical education teacher, Lee positively impacts the lives of all those he comes into contact with on a daily basis, especially the students.