Brad Johnson | Superintendent | Renville County West School District
Experience with Current School/District: I recently started as the superintendent of the Renville County West School District. Prior to this, I served as Superintendent and Elementary Principal for the McGregor School District in the North Central Region for four years.
Experience in Education Sector: I have 21 years of administrative experience in rural Minnesota:
- Middle School/Elementary Principal, Benson School District
- Superintendent/Elementary Principal, McGregor School District
- Minnesota River Valley Education District
- SWWC – Executive Committee of Superintendent Executive Council
- Several Superintendent Boards in Northeast Minnesota
Experience in Rural Sector: I have spent 33 of my 34 years in education in rural school districts, 31 of which have been in Minnesota. I have also been active in small-town organizations and educational organizations, understanding the unique challenges of rural areas compared to metro areas.
Other Relevant Experience: I have lived in rural communities for most of my life, except for college and one year teaching in Texas. I am deeply involved in small-town activities and organizations, knowing the unique challenges rural areas face.
Why MREA? I am passionate about rural education and its role in fostering vibrant communities. With 34 years of experience in education, I have seen the unique challenges and opportunities rural schools face. I am eager to join MREA to collaborate, share strategies, and address the specific needs of rural students. I believe MREA is the ideal platform to drive positive change in rural education in Minnesota.
What Excites You About MREA’s Work? MREA’s dedication to rural Minnesota’s needs has driven significant progress. They give rural Minnesota a voice in the state, ensuring all Minnesotans’ needs are considered, not just those in metro areas.
Challenges for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- Ensuring state funding is fair and equitable for all rural school districts, not just metro ones.
- Having a voice in state legislation and regulations affecting all rural school districts and students.
Opportunities for MREA in the Next 4 Years:
- Changing funding for rural school districts by increasing opportunities to meet with legislators and influence their direction.
- Raising awareness of the challenges rural districts face and making these challenges public to voters.
Expertise and Skills to Strengthen MREA’s Mission:
- Marketing
- Information Technology
- Human Resources
- Social Media
- Public Policy/Advocacy