I first met Michael Johnson in 2010. I was the principal at La Follette High School, and he was named the new leader of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County. I reached out to him and scheduled breakfast. From the moment we first shook hands, I have considered him an incredible community partner and leader and, most importantly, a close friend.
When Michael was in the room, everyone knew it. However, his gift was always ensuring the focus remained on the children and families who needed support, particularly those in underserved communities and students of color. As evidenced by programs and initiatives like BGCDC’s Youth of the Year awards, Michael understood the importance of identifying the young people facing the greatest challenges and making sure they had access to the opportunities, resources and relationships they needed to succeed.
I did not have to wait until Michael left us to know his impact. To share just one of countless examples, we recently celebrated the AVID/TOPS College Decision Day together at Madison College. I remember when MMSD implemented AVID, and I recall the creation of TOPS. I was also on the AVID/TOPS steering board. To witness 231 graduating AVID/TOPS students walk across the stage and share their college choices and career goals was proof of Michael’s tenacity in creating this truly remarkable partnership.
Most of all, Michael loved his family, and as a proud father, he was always ready to provide updates about what his children were up to. He often spoke about how his own life experiences and struggles shaped him, and how the support of family helped provide the perspective, energy and vision that fueled his lifelong commitment to serving others.
Michael’s presence in Dane County, Madison and MMSD profoundly impacted the lives of countless students and families. I know that I stand with many others who will ensure his legacy of advocacy for youth and families lives on.
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MMSD announces principal and assistant principal assignments for 2026–27, aligning leaders’ strengths with school needs to support students and staff.
