Sarah Johnson

Special ed teacher Sarah Johnson first taught at Prairie View High School before joining Paola High School. Johnson received her master’s degree and her teaching license from Pittsburg State University.

“I was para in a special ed classroom and I loved the environment and the energy the kids gave off and that’s when I knew I wanted to pursue that degree,” Johnson said.

Johnson had been teaching for four years, during which she said she she has learned compassion, patience and understanding.

“My first dream job was to be an orthodontist. As a senior I went on a Rotary Exchange to Germany. When I returned I knew an office job wasn’t for me, so I pursued an adventure recreation degree and spent many years facilitating team building programs and high ropes courses,” Johnson said.

Johnson came to Paola because she said she was ready for a change from her old routine.

“I believe that I am a good fit for Paola High School and the school district because I want to be able to help students succeed and become more independent,” Johnson said. “I also believe in the four core foundations of PHS and if you follow them, you will be successful.”

Outside of teaching Johnson said she enjoys reading, sewing, hanging out with family and being on the water.

“When it comes to expressing creativity in the classroom, I am a huge advocate for showing knowledge in multiple mediums,” Johnson said. “ If they had an idea on how they want to do that, as long as it will meet the requirements of the assignment or task, I am all for it.”