James Johnson has been named Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) 2026 Teacher of the Year during the 32nd Annual Flame for Learning Award Ceremony. Johnson was one of 20 semifinalists who were honored at the celebration.
Johnson teaches Agricultural Mechanics at North Johnston High and was one of four Flame for Learning Award finalists, which included Moesha Gonzales of Swift Creek Middle, Lena LeBoeuf of Swift Creek Elementary and Rebecca Reeves of Smithfield-Selma High.
There were 218 nominations for this year’s title, representing 15 schools across the district. Nearly all semifinalists were first-time nominees. Nominated by colleagues and administrators, the semifinalists advanced through a blind judging process that included an interview phase and submission of classroom best practices for review.
2026 Teacher of the Year James Johnson believes in the National FFA Organization’s motto: Learning to Do, Doing to Learn. As an Agricultural Mechanics teacher at North Johnston High, he prepares his students for real-world careers in the trades with a classroom that is a fully functioning welding and fabrication shop.
His approach gives them hands-on experience in the field, ensuring they can be successful in the industry of their choice after high school. They also gain familiarity with more than 140 tools, and students can earn valuable certifications that will help them as they decide on a career path.
The Triangle East Chamber of Commerce has been giving the Flame For Learning Award since 1994. This award recognizes outstanding creativity and innovation in teachers selected strictly on merit, without regard to school or residence.
Each honoree received a framed Flame for Learning Award certificate and two backpacks filled with donated resources and supplies. Semifinalists additionally received $150, and finalists each received an award and $500.
As the winner, Johnson received an award and a $1,000 check from event sponsors. Johnson will represent JCPS in the regional competition for North Carolina’s Teacher of the Year. All monetary awards were made possible thanks to the 2026 Flame For Learning Award sponsors.
