Johnson is the first Tusculum faculty member to receive such an appointment and immediately began serving a three-term and will participate in training activities later this month.
“This is an exciting opportunity for me and for the College,” said Johnson. “I not only have the opportunity to see what others are doing across the state, but also to bring innovative program ideas back to Tusculum College.”
Johnson’s role with the Board of Examiners will be to serve as an evaluator for schools that certify teachers of K-12 education. She will have the opportunity to participate in a minimum of three evaluations, but said she hopes to do more. “Each time you serve is a chance to increase your knowledge and experience and to gain new perspectives.”
“Dr. Johnson’s appointment to the State Board of Examiners will provide the College with the most up-to-date information on the application of the state standards for teacher education programs. This will help us tremendously in keeping our own programs compliant and in developing new programs in the School of Education,” said Dr. Kim Estep, provost and vice president of academic affairs.
Estep nominated Johnson for the appointment based on her extensive experience in the development and evaluation of educational programs, including working with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools reviews at the college level and in the K-12 system.
“Her skills in program analysis, use of computer technology, writing skills, professional judgment and interpersonal skills are all exceptional. She represents a new generation of educational leaders in this state who will shape the future of teacher education.”
Johnson said she is hoping that she will visit schools with diverse populations because as a College, Tusculum trains teachers who will work in many different socio-economic and culturally blended communities.
“Our field experiences are limited to our geographic areas, so we are always looking for opportunities to provide our students exposure to diverse teaching experiences. That’s what I hope to bring back to Tusculum from this experience.”