Johnson Named Principal At Mercer Elementary
May 14 Last Day For Mercer Students
Nekita Johnson (Image submitted).
Nekita Yates Johnson has been named principal of Mercer County Elementary School.
Johnson, a Mercer County native, is a graduate of Harrodsburg High School. She earned her undergraduate at Kentucky State University and her master’s in educational leadership from the University of Kentucky.
Johnson began her career in the classroom in 2004 as a fifth grade teacher at Harrodsburg Independent. She went on to teach at Burgin Independent and Mercer County Schools, where she is currently an instructional coach for elementary and intermediate schools.
Johnson will replace Jennifer Miller, who was named interim principal after Lee Anne Divine retired.
“The wealth of knowledge Dr. Miller has is phenomenal and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work with her,” said Johnson.
Johnson’s first official day as principal is July 1, but she is ready to get to work immediately. “I will take every chance I get to work with Dr. Miller,” said Johnson.
She commended the work that has been going on in the elementary school. “The elementary has great things going on and I hope to build on that,” she said.
When asked about her goals, Johnson said as an instructional coach she sees how vital the bridge is for students moving from one building to the next and how important consistency in the curriculum is. She plans to continue the conversations between the teachers Miller started so the students see success as they move from one grade to the next and one building to the next. Another goal of Johnson’s is to do more outreach and immerse herself in the community.
“Dr. Miller has stepped in a few times for us since her retirement and her help has been invaluable,” said Superintendent Dennis Davis. “I have confidence in Nekita, and I know she will be a great addition to our leadership team.”
“I’m blessed and excited for the opportunity God has given me and can’t wait to get started,” said Johnson.
Nekita is married to Mike Johnson. Their oldest daughter, Olivia (Jamison) Gooch is expecting a son at the end of August. Their daughter Mariah attends the University of Louisville. Their son, Michael, attends Kentucky State University. Their niece, Aries, who they raise, is a junior at Mercer County Senior High.
In other news, the Mercer County Board of Education voted to make May 14 the last day for students and May 29 the last day for teachers and staff.
