Additional Q-and-A with Kim Johnson

Here’s candidate Q-and-A content in addition to what appeared in EPLN’s print Voter Guide, mailed to Eden Prairie homes in early October. We are repeating the Voter Guide’s introduction of the candidate.

Kim Johnson

Website: www.sites.google.com/view/kim-johnson4epsb

Johnson is an Eden Prairie resident of more than 35 years. She lives on Pioneer Trail.

Johnson said she has gained experience in setting and enforcing policy – among the duties of school board members – by leading a team of professionals in learning and development, with a focus on safe and secure learning environments.

A recent graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, she said she has become a member of both the international and local chapters of the Association for Training & Development (ATD) and has served as a “thought partner” for the school district advisory team working on the Business & Management Pathway.

As far as community involvement, she is an officer in Toastmasters and has supported community organizations with their speech contests.

Johnson said she has been preparing for potential school board service by attending meetings online for the past nine months and reviewing policies, roles and responsibilities.

She reported no campaign endorsements or donations from groups.

EPLN: Eden Prairie Schools’ strategic plan calls for an “inclusive learning environment.” Should cultural awareness extend to school board members and, if so, what additional measures would you suggest? 

JOHNSON: While the concept of an inclusive learning environment is important and beneficial, it is crucial to approach it with transparency and open dialogue. If there are concerns or suspicions of a hidden agenda, it is essential to address them through open and honest communication. 

As to whether cultural awareness should extend to school board members, yes. It is important that we ensure that we are aware in a genuine and unbiased manner. We have a diverse community, and it is important to learn from one another about our cultures. I love to learn about other people’s cultures. I work with a team in India, and I learn something new about them every day, and they learn from me. 

To extend this type of learning, I would want to have clear objectives that foster cultural understandings, respect and inclusivity without hidden agendas or biases. By including different stakeholders, parents, teachers, students and community members to ensure that we have everyone’s input to implement a policy for cultural awareness, we can strive to maintain transparency, trust and integrity while promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity with the school community.

EPLN: Eden Prairie Schools has tightened its restrictions on student use of cell phones, but a small but growing number of states are going even further. Do you favor cell phone restrictions beyond what currently exists in Eden Prairie Schools? 

JOHNSON: Yes, cell phones must remain put away during school hours, including passing times and lunch periods. This helps students concentrate on their education and engage more meaningfully with each other. We face enough distractions as it is, so keeping phones out of sight promotes a more focused and positive environment. One school that implemented this policy has seen reductions in conflicts, improved collaboration and a more positive atmosphere overall. Students will still have access to school-owned devices if needed throughout the day.

EPLN: How would you maintain impartiality and fairness, even when faced with issues that may conflict with your personal beliefs? 

JOHNSON: In my role within the corporate environment, I am deeply committed to treating every individual with respect, even when it challenges my personal beliefs. 

My approach to fairness involves two key principles: 1) Listening and Acknowledgment – I ensure that everyone feels heard and understood, even if we don’t always reach a consensus. This means that while we may have differing opinions, the decisions made will be considerate and equitable. 2) Diverse Collaboration – I actively seek input from a diverse group of individuals to address issues and make collective decisions. This collaborative process helps ensure that all perspectives are considered. 

However, if we encounter an impasse, a final decision-maker will step in to make the ultimate call, enabling a team to move forward effectively. This approach fosters an environment of respect and fairness while navigating differing viewpoints.

EPLN: Where do you see the Eden Prairie School District in the next 5 to 10 years? 

JOHNSON: As we look toward the future of our education program, it’s clear that technology is rapidly evolving, and with it, the way we work and learn is transforming. To prepare our students for this changing landscape, our school district must stay ahead of these shifts, ensuring that we equip students and teachers to adapt. 

Education is moving beyond traditional textbooks and memorization. I see the school districts shifting towards experiential learning, where students engage in hands-on, project-based activities. This approach not only helps them develop practical skills but also aligns with competency metrics that reflect their abilities. 

At the same time, we need to stay committed to teaching foundational knowledge to ensure that essential skills and information are preserved. Balancing innovative learning methods with core principles will provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for both current and future challenges.