Preschool and elementary students across Johnston County are being encouraged to put their creativity to work while sharing an important message: being in school matters.

Read to Grow Johnston County has launched its fifth annual Attendance Awareness Month Poster Contest, open to students from preschool through fifth grade. The contest is being held in conjunction with September’s recognition as Attendance Awareness Month in Johnston County.

Students are asked to design a poster highlighting the importance of regular school attendance. Entries will be judged on theme, design and creativity, with winning artwork featured on Read to Grow’s social media and displayed at the students’ schools. Winners will also receive a gift pack.

The contest isn’t limited to Johnston County Public Schools. Homeschool, charter and private school students are also invited to participate.

The campaign draws attention to chronic absenteeism, generally defined as missing 10 percent of the school year—or about 18 days. Regular attendance is particularly important during the early years as children develop reading and other foundational skills.

There’s also encouraging news locally. Benson Elementary and Selma Elementary were recently recognized as AttendNC Bright Spots for making significant progress in reducing chronic absenteeism over the past five years. Benson Elementary recorded a 51.7 percent reduction, while Selma Elementary achieved a 41.6 percent reduction.

The Johnston County Board of Commissioners recognized September 2026 as Attendance Awareness Month on August 3. Johnston County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. David Pearce also signed the proclamation.

Read to Grow Johnston County brings together schools, families, businesses, faith organizations and community groups to help improve educational outcomes for local children.

Contest information is available on Read to Grow JoCo's Facebook page.