Teresa Johnson

It is an honor and pleasure to be selected as one of the Amplifying Black Voices mentors this year. I am a 25 years veteran teacher who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and earned a Master of Arts in Teacher Leadership and Administration from Roosevelt University. As a lifelong learner, I have broadened my education lens and received an additional Master of Science in Middle School Mathematics from Walden University.

My educational teaching journey started here in Las Vegas, Nevada at Marion Cahlan Elementary School. This was a beautiful experience working with a diverse group of students. The school motto was “If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me!” I continue to use this quote today which was spoken daily by Ms. Jean Jackson. She was the first and only African American Principal I met in Las Vegas at the time. Ms. Jackson mentored me in my initial year of teaching. She believed in her community and inspired others to participate.

I taught at Leslie Lewis Elementary School as a primary teacher, TAP lead teacher, and after-school coordinator upon returning to Chicago. I was selected as a candidate for the Star School Leadership Program out of 106 candidates. After hours I worked at the Technical School of Medicine as an Ultrasound Instructor and Education Coordinator. Due to the displacement of veteran teachers in the Chicago School System, I relocated to the Las Vegas area where I was employed as a teacher at Pat Diskin Elementary and Edmundo Escobedo Middle School. Anthony Saville Middle School is my current place of employment as a Middle School Mathematics Teacher.

I am a proud mother of a courageous daughter. She is a recent graduate of the Magnate Program of Ed Clark High School. My daughter is an outstanding athlete who has won several regional and state track championships throughout high school. Also, she is an avid Ice Skater. This fall she will attend the University of Oregon and major in Architecture. During my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. My takeaway from this journey has taught me to be open-minded and empathize with others.