Dwayne Johnson Named PCS Principal of the Year
Congratulations to Mr. Dwayne Johnson, principal of Woodland Elementary School, who has been selected as the 2025-2026 Person County Schools Principal of the Year in a program sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and Wells Fargo.
Mr. Johnson began his teaching career with Person County Schools in 2011 as a high school social studies teacher at Person High School, where he dedicated eight years to fostering a love of learning and civic responsibility among his students. Known for his ability to build strong connections with young people, Mr. Johnson also led professional development sessions for teachers and administrators on the importance of cultivating relationships and meeting students where they are to ensure every learner’s success.
In 2019, he transitioned into school administration, serving as an assistant principal intern at Helena Elementary School. Following his internship, he was appointed assistant principal at Northern Middle from July 2020 to June 2022, before assuming his current role as principal of Woodland Elementary School in July 2022.
Mr. Johnson earned his bachelor’s degree in History and Secondary Education from North Carolina Central University and a master’s degree in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education from UNC-Chapel Hill. A natural leader, his dedication to service and advocacy was evident early in his academic journey, as he served two terms as President of the NCCU Student Government Association.
Mr. Johnson is married to his wife, Erika, and together they are the proud parents of four children: Erik (7), Lola (5), Ella (3), and Kaya (1).
Superintendent Peterson shared, “It is with great pride that we announce Mr. Dwayne Johnson as the Principal of the Year for Person County Schools. He exemplifies the highest standards of educational leadership and reflects the core values that define our district’s mission and vision. Through intentional collaboration, data-driven decision making, and a focus on continuous improvement, Mr. Johnson has strengthened instructional practices across his building. He is also dedicated to building meaningful partnerships with families and community partners; creating opportunities for students. As a life-long learner and reflective administrator, Mr. Johnson consistently seeks to refine his craft, modeling the professional growth and passion for learning that we hope to inspire in every educator and student. We are honored to celebrate Mr. Johnson for this well-deserved recognition and we are deeply grateful for the positive impact that he continues to make at Woodland Elementary School, as well as across our district.”
On being named, Mr. Johnson shared, “It is truly an honor to be recognized among such brilliant leaders across the district. My leadership is a reflection of their expertise, as I’ve grown tremendously by serving alongside them. Their shared experiences, insights, and reflections continually push me to refine my craft. I am also deeply grateful for the dedicated educators I’ve learned from over the years; those who work tirelessly to strengthen their practice and ensure every student benefits from meaningful instruction. The students of Person County Schools inspire me daily through their perseverance and commitment to learning, reminding me why our work matters. The partnership and trust of our families motivate me to keep polishing the quality of instruction we deliver and our district leaders challenge me to grow, reflect, and serve every student with purpose and care. While I am humbled by this individual recognition, I accept it on behalf of a community that truly believes in collective effort. This is a community where every teacher, student, family, and leader contributes to providing the best education possible for our children and I am grateful to be a member.”