Operations Staff

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Melissa Blackwell - Superintendent

Dr. Blackwell has Johnston County roots as a graduate of South Johnston High School, so she is familiar with the needs of our community and resources available to provide students a stellar educational experience. Dr. Blackwell began her professional career as a literature, science and social studies instructor for middle school students. Within six years, she had secured a position at one of the top K-12 public charter schools in the state (Franklin Academy, Wake Forest). In 2011, Dr. Blackwell transitioned from a middle school literature instructor to a middle and high school administrator at the highly regarded Thales Academy. Over the course of eight years at Thales Academy, Dr. Blackwell gained extensive experience in curriculum coordination, staff evaluations, parent engagement, talent recruitment and growth, enrollment management, testing, college counseling, budgeting and finance. Most recently, Dr. Blackwell served as Head of School at Fusion Academy which offers an innovative personalized learning environment.

Dr. Blackwell has ambitiously pursued opportunities to expand her knowledge, credibility, and expertise throughout her 19 years of experience in education. After graduating from Johnston Community College, she pursued her Bachelor of Science from NC State University followed by a Masters of Education in Reading. In 2009, she obtained National Board Certification on her first attempt! In 2011, she received her Mentor Certification along with her Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership and School Administration from Walden University. She completed her Doctorate of Education from Walden University in February of 2019.

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