Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Bernadeia Johnson to Speak at St. Thomas' First Friday Lunch Feb. 4

Bernadeia Johnson, superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, will be the next speaker in the University of St. Thomas Alumni Association’s First Friday Speaker Series at noon Friday, Feb. 4, at Nicollet Island Pavillion, 40 Power St., near downtown Minneapolis.

Bernadeia Johnson

Bernadeia Johnson

Johnson’s talk, sponsored by the School of Education, will focus on her vision for the Minneapolis School District.

Johnson was named superintendent of the Minneapolis Public Schools in the summer of 2010 after previously serving as deputy superintendent for five years. She is responsible for providing leadership, leadership development, service and support to improve the academic achievement of all of the district’s students.

During the superintendent selection process, Johnson emphasized the importance of high expectations and accountability for herself and every school-district employee. She also stressed the importance of community involvement in and beyond the school day to promote continuous learning for all students.

Johnson received her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from St. Thomas before earning her principal’s and superintendent’s licensures. Her administrative roles have included assistant principal in St. Paul schools, principal in Minneapolis schools and deputy superintendent for Memphis City Schools. Currently, she is completing her dissertation for a doctorate in Education Policy and Administration at the University of Minnesota.

On first Fridays of each month during the academic year, the St. Thomas Alumni Association’s First Friday Speaker Series offers lunch and a speaker of current interest. St. Thomas alumni and friends, along with the general public, are invited. Cost of each luncheon and presentation is $25. Student tickets are $15.

For reservations and more information, call the St. Thomas Alumni Association, (651) 962-6430, or register online at the association’s website. The deadline to register is Friday, Jan. 28.