Brett Johnson

Brett Johnson took over as Harland County superintendent on July 1. Photo courtesy Brett Johnson

(HARLAN COUNTY, KY) – Superintendent Brett Johnson has dedicated almost 25 years of service to Harlan County and now will to lead the district that raised him.

Johnson’s career began in the 2001-2002 school year as a middle school math teacher. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Kentucky, Johnson returned home to Harlan County, where one of his former principals offered him a temporary teaching position. Johnson said he only intended to keep the job until something else came along, but it quickly sparked a passion.

“I just absolutely loved teaching, loved the classroom experience. I had such a pleasant experience with it that I just decided to make it a career,” Johnson said.

After nearly six years in the classroom, Johnson transitioned into administration in 2007, taking on the role of director of pupil personnel at Harlan County. Over the next 18 years, he served in that capacity, eventually taking on responsibilities as assistant superintendent while continuing as the director of pupil personnel.

“We have the opportunity to make an impact, and we see immediate results, and I think it’s such a blessing to know that,” Johnson said.

Born and raised in Harlan County, Johnson has deep roots in the community. He said his connection to the people and his understanding of the district’s needs have been essential in helping make the transition into this role a smooth one.

“I know firsthand of the awesome group of faculty, staff, teachers and students that we have. I know firsthand that we have a fantastic group and I also have connections with the community,” he said.

Johnson said his leadership style is shaped by mentors, personal experience and faith. He credits former superintendents and principals for showing him what it means to lead with compassion and consistency. Faith is central to Johnson’s approach not just to leadership but to life.

“I personally am faith-based, and I’m active in my church. I’m a Christian … a lot of my faith plays a major role in the leadership style that I bring with me every day,” Johnson said.

As superintendent, Johnson said he’s focused on innovation, and he is looking to expand existing programs while maintaining the values that have always been important to Harlan County Public Schools. Johnson said he’s leading a path that will continue to build and grow the county. He said his main goals include finding opportunities to help students prepare academically and socially. One of the biggest new developments: a new preschool with plans to further early childhood education in the district.

“The future is always bright,” Johnson said.

Another goal includes expanding remote learning opportunities and enhancing career pathways for high school students through partnerships with Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Johnson served under three superintendents before becoming the superintendent of Harlan County himself. Johnson said each superintendent positively impacted him.

“All three were fantastic leaders … They all had different leadership styles, but they were all effective leaders,” he said.

He sees his role as a bridge between the schools and the broader community, preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

“When they graduate from our school system, I want them to be as prepared as possible; to be able to enter into either college or the workforce, whichever path they choose. We have that obligation to make sure that we’re turning out great students,” Johnson said.

Johnson said he hopes people remember him as a superintendent who always put the school, students and staff first.

“Someone who led with integrity, with dignity and compassion. Someone who always provided sound leadership and was always there to willingly roll their sleeves up and help make a difference in any way possible,” Johnson said.