State College Area School Board appoints district’s first African American superintendent

The State College Area School Board unanimously approved Curtis Johnson as superintendent during its Monday night meeting. The vote was met with a standing ovation from the board and administrators present, along with congratulations from current and former board members.

After an 11 month search, the board offered Johnson a five-year contract with an annual salary of $210,000. Johnson will be the district’s first African American superintendent and first non-white superintendent.

Johnson has served as interim superintendent since May, after the departure of Bob O’Donnell. Johnson previously served as the assistant superintendent and as a high school principal during his 19 years with the district.

Several board members recounted memories of working with Johnson throughout the years and shared their optimism at working with him as superintendent. Board President Jackie Huff said the board conducted a nationwide search for candidates and found Johnson to be the best candidate.

“We all recognize that SCASD is a great district with many strengths and Mr. Johnson sees that it can be even more exceptional and is ready to do the work to move district in that direction,” Huff said, wiping away tears. “Mr. Johnson has the ability to see each student as their own person has their own unique path through school beyond.”

Johnson thanked the board for appointing him and helping him throughout his term as interim superintendent.

“This whole process just reminds me of the little things that I have taken for granted and forgotten about ... just the things that I have done over the years,” Johnson said. “It’s been a great 20 years.”

During the meeting, the board also discussed the Equity Action Plan, which Johnson has been working on with Tonya Black, the director of equity and inclusion. Increasing equity is one of Johnson’s goals for the district, including hiring diverse staff, increasing student participation in extracurricular and non-curricular activities and creating a culturally responsive student handbook. Cultural responsiveness, as defined by Education Week, is understanding how cultural differences and perspectives factor into teaching and learning.

Former board president Amber Concepcion also spoke in support of Johnson during public comment.

“Mr. Johnson has focused on building a district that is a great place for all kids to learn, and also investing in developing teachers and leaders among the staff here in our district,” Concepcion said. ”He has a great appreciation for the role of families in our community and the need for engaging parents and listening to the voices of families, about their experiences and needs.”