Emilie Johnson, PhD

Emilie Johnson, PhD, is a dedicated educator, leader, and professor whose career reflects a strong commitment to both practice and scholarship. She began her professional journey in public education as a classroom teacher, working at both the elementary and middle school levels. During this time, she developed a deep focus on student engagement, inclusive classroom practices, and the importance of relationship-centered teaching.

She later transitioned into school leadership, serving as an elementary assistant principal. While in this role, she earned her PhD from Saint Louis University, demonstrating her commitment to advancing her knowledge while actively leading in a school setting. Her experience as an administrator strengthened her expertise in school leadership, teacher development, and building positive, student-centered school cultures.

Following her work in public education, Dr. Johnson moved into higher education, where she has served as a full-time faculty member for the past 26 years. In this role, she prepares future educators and school leaders to create meaningful, inclusive learning environments. She teaches graduate courses for practicing PK–12 teachers and mentors doctoral students pursuing school leadership, supporting their research, writing, and professional growth. Her teaching and scholarship emphasize behavior management, character education, trauma-informed practices, the impact of childhood poverty on learning, and the psychology of teaching and learning, with a consistent focus on the critical role of relationships in student success.

Dr. Johnson is also actively engaged in character education at the state, national, and international levels through her work with CharacterPlus and Character.org. She serves as an evaluator for Schools of Character and coaches schools in implementing and strengthening the 11 Principles of Character Education, supporting reflection, alignment, and continuous growth grounded in research-based practices.

Across all roles, Dr. Johnson is guided by a belief that education is most powerful when students feel seen, valued, and connected, and she continues to empower educators to create classrooms where every student can thrive.

COI Statement: Dr. Johnson has nothing to disclose.