Submitted by Johnston County Public Schools
SMITHFIELD — Larkeysha M. Sheppard, principal of McGee’s Crossroads Middle School, was recently recognized as a recipient of the 2025 Administrator to Watch award by the North Carolina Association for Middle-Level Education (NCMLE).
The award recognizes a school-based administrator who demonstrates outstanding dedication to middle school concepts and positively impacts students and the school community.
The award aims to highlight and celebrate the work of school-based administrators who are passionate about middle school education and actively involved in improving students’ learning experiences.
“I am honored to receive the Administrator to Watch award from the NC Middle Level Education Association,” said Sheppard. “I am fortunate to serve this community and am committed to creating a school environment where every student believes in their ability to achieve and is seen, supported, and inspired to grow.”
McGee’s Crossroads Middle is one of many JCPS schools recognized for its remarkable academic achievement scores in the recent past. The school exceeded academic growth during the 2023-2024 school year, marking the third consecutive year for the recognition. In addition, the school ranked in the top 3% for academic growth among state middle schools, placing 79th out of 2,593 schools.
The school’s letter grade improved from 58 to 65, a seven-point increase, and its overall performance composite improved from 52.7 to 58.1, an increase of 5.4 points.
“I share this award with my entire school community, and I’m grateful for and blessed with the opportunity to lead, learn and serve alongside them,” Sheppard said. “This recognition is a reflection of the incredible work happening every day at our school because of our dedicated and hardworking teachers and support staff, supportive families, and most importantly, our amazing Mustangs.”
McGee’s Crossroads Middle has contributed significantly to the improved performance scores achieved by the school district. “The success we have seen at McGee’s Middle speaks directly to the brilliance of our students, the passion of our teachers and staff and the amazing leadership of Mrs. Sheppard,” said Dr. Eric C. Bracy, JCPS Superintendent. “Her leadership style and her approach to ensuring that student achievement and staff development remains at the forefront is instrumental in the success, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth of the school community.”
