Dr. Sue Johnson, Savanna School District Superintendent

 It was on her first day of kindergarten that Dr. Johnson decided that she wanted to become a teacher, a goal that became a beacon for her educational career— a goal that became a guiding beacon throughout her life. Growing up in Pomona and Ontario, she worked part-time jobs through high school and college, relying on grants and determination to become the first in her family to graduate from college. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree in School Administration from Cal State San Bernardino and her Doctorate in Education from USC. As a first-generation college graduate, she remains passionate about providing opportunities for all students to succeed and preparing them for college and career readiness.

With a dedication to shaping the next generation of learners and leaders, Dr. Johnson began her career teaching third and fifth grades followed by serving as an elementary school assistant principal and as a lecturer at California State University, San Bernardino. She joined the Savanna School District as Curriculum Coordinator and has since served in a variety of leadership roles, including Director of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and Superintendent of Schools.

Dr. Johnson is deeply committed to supporting students, future educators, and the wider community. She has given back to her community and her alma mater, Cal Poly Pomona, in numerous ways. After being named Distinguished Alumna for the School of Education and Integrative Studies at Cal Poly Pomona in 2005, she joined the Partners in Education (PIE) Board to help support future teachers. During her tenure on the board, more than 325 students have received financial assistance to complete their clinical practice, helping to prepare the next generation of educators.

Beyond her leadership within the district, Dr. Johnson has been instrumental in expanding programs that directly support children and families. She has championed initiatives such as the Children’s Shopping Spree, the district’s preschool and WINGS after-school programs, and efforts to ensure students have access to high-quality enrichment opportunities. She has also prioritized strong community partnerships, working closely with organizations including the Pacific Symphony, local law enforcement agencies, Boys & Girls Clubs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and many more. Her commitment to building these connections has created countless opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and feel supported by their broader community.

Her dedication to education and service has been recognized through her selection as Orange County Superintendent of the Year in 2013, Buena Park Citizen of the Year in 2018, and most recently, as the 2025 Woman of the Year by the Buena Park Chapter of Soroptimist International. Dr. Johnson shares, “It’s very fulfilling to give back to future generations, creating opportunities for others as they were created for me. In my current role, I’ve been fortunate to help ensure students have access to the best teachers, facilities, technologies, and curricula — paving the way for their success.”

In her free time, Dr. Johnson enjoys reading, traveling and exploring America’s National Parks with her family. She lives by the words of Confucius: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”