Bernadeia Johnson, who is completing her dissertation for a doctorate in educational policy and administration at the University, begins her position as superintendent of the Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) on July 1. Johnson, who received her superintendent’s licensure in 2007 from the Department of Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development, served as deputy superintendent of MPS since August 2005.
After a selection process that began in July 2009, the Minneapolis Board of Education selected Johnson as the single candidate for the position in February 2010 and hosted community meetings to introduce her. During those meetings, Johnson emphasized the importance of community involvement to promote continuous learning for all students. One of the key architects of the development of the Minneapolis Public Schools Strategic Plan 2007-2012, Johnson plans to focus on accelerating academic progress for all students in her new role.
“I am extremely hopeful for the future and excited to lead this work,” said Johnson. “I am eager to focus on the academic work of the district and I know we can do great things for the children of Minneapolis.”
Johnson was deputy superintendent of Memphis City Schools, the largest school system in the state of Tennessee, from 2004 to 2005. She was principal at Elizabeth Hall Community School in Minneapolis from 1999 to 2004, and she taught and served as an assistant principal in the Saint Paul Public School district from 1991 to 1999.