APRIL LEE
Kids, Classrooms, Communities
District 4 Johnston County Board of Education
Meet April Lee
"You can trust me to make decisions that will be in the best interest of our students and staff, always."
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April is a Johnston County native. She attended Four Oaks and Benson Elementaries and graduated from South Johnston in 1995. She attended Meredith College on the NC Teaching Fellows Scholarship and returned to Johnston County to begin her teaching career. April earned her Masters in Education from Campbell University in 2008 and her National Board Certified Teacher designation in 2010. April holds multiple teaching licenses, including Middle Grades Math, Language Arts, and Social Studies and High School Social Studies. She is licensed to teach Academically Gifted students in grades k-12. April taught in the Cleveland, McGee’s, Benson, and Four Oaks communities during her career in Johnston County.
April began advocating for public schools locally and at the NC Legislature during the course of her career. She has been an outspoken advocate for raising teacher and classified pay, calendar flexibility for local districts, revamping the school report card grade specifications, and developmentally appropriate standards for our students, among many other issues. After 21 years of teaching in Johnston County Public Schools, April accepted a position at Harnett County Early College, where she is still a classroom teacher.
April is a mother, wife, and classroom teacher. Her two youngest children attend Johnston County Public Schools, and her oldest graduated from West Johnston High School. April and her family have lived in the McGee’s Crossroads community for over 18 years.
Why did I choose to run for JCPS Board of Education?
Public education centers around our students, our staff, and our communities. Over the last few years, our BOE has lost its focus. We need to correct this quickly.
I love public schools. I've always been very clear about that. I'm a native Johnstonian, 8 generations living, working, and raising families here. Public schools are the cornerstone of our communities, and we need to offer the strongest game in town. And despite the hype about charters and private schools, I believe we do have the best schools. We just need a board that reflects and supports the work happening within the district.
Serving on the BOE isn't about politics or political parties or lawsuits. It's not about who you or I vote for in national elections. It's about doing what's right and good for our kids and our staff. We may not agree on national politics, but I bet you believe that our public schools are important. I bet you can remember a public school teacher who made a difference in your life. I bet we can agree that our staff aren't paid nearly enough for the work they do. I bet you believe that our kids deserve to have the best teachers in the classroom. And if we can agree on that, then I can represent you on the BOE.
"I am a Johnston County native and veteran teacher who is deeply concerned about our schools."
April Lee was one of my teachers in 6th grade. Today, we are friends. Her passion and dedication to educate still exists and has remained strong since I met her over 12 years ago. There is no doubt I’ll be voting for April, as I know that she cares deeply to ensure every student gets the education they deserve.
Selena Moss / Former Student
Mrs. April Lee is such a gem when it comes to the importance of education. I'm so proud of her accomplishments and uplifting words of encouragement that have shaped me into the man I am today! Keep climbing, Mrs. Lee!
Jermain Patterson / Former Student
I have never met anyone more passionate about quality education for our children than April Lee. She was my coworker at two different schools, and she was always willing to lend a hand and go the extra mile. She has mentored countless beginning teachers. During her tenure with Johnston County Schools, she served on numerous committees and led multiple clubs and after school events. She is true servant leader and role model.
Dana Bottomley / Colleague
April Lee is by far the most qualified candidate for the JCPS District 4 Board of Education seat up for election. Citizens of Johnston County can be assured that she - as her platform states - “will always do what is in the best interest for students and staff of JCPS.” Having worked alongside April, I have witnessed firsthand her passion and drive to see her students succeed. She is a great teacher, and she will be a great addition to the Board of Education.
Stenson Lee / Colleague
I had the pleasure of teaching with April Lee when I started my career. She was an amazing mentor, always went above and beyond for her students, and was someone that I admired as an educator. She always put her students first and did what was in the best interest for them. I no longer teach in North Carolina, however, I have admired how April is always advocating for public school teachers and students. She is passionate about education and will fight for what is right for ALL students and teachers.
Jenn Martin / Colleague
