National Heritage Academies broke ground on its 12th school in North Carolina on Monday, Oct. 30. The school, Johnston Charter Academy, will welcome more than 600 students in kindergarten through seventh grade when it opens in the fall of 2018.
Founding Principal Kerry Chisnall, four board members, and a representative from Bouma Construction attended the private event.
“The groundbreaking is a pivotal moment for many of us that have been working on this project from the beginning,” said Ebony Haywood, president of the board. “I'm excited to be a part of the team bringing a new school to the Johnston County community as we continue to build partnerships and prepare to open in August 2018. We know that Johnston Charter School will have a positive impact on the parents and families as we become a part of an already thriving town. As we begin the open enrollment process our team is looking forward to the opportunity to interact with potential families and students.”
Open Enrollment for student applications began Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017. During Open Enrollment all student applications are accepted equally.
When Open Enrollment closes, if there are more student applications than available seats, a random student lottery will be held. Applications may be completed online or by calling 877-677-3299.
Interested families are invited to attend upcoming Enrollment Information Meetings to learn more about the school.
Johnston Charter Academy is a free public charter school in Clayton. In partnership with a local Board of directors, the school is managed by National Heritage Academies (NHA), which currently operates 89 schools in nine states.
“I am beyond excited to be the founding principal of Johnston Charter Academy,” said Chisnall. “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to bring together a dynamic team who is dedicated to creating a culture of excellence based on National Heritage Academies’ four pillars: academic excellence, moral focus, parent partnership, and student responsibility. I look forward to serving our families in Clayton, and surrounding communities, and nurturing the growth and development of our students and staff in a safe, challenging, and fun K-8 environment.”
Chisnall brings 18 years of educational experience with him to Johnston Charter Academy. He holds a doctorate degree in school administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.