Level Up Leadership

The audience should be prepared to be enlightened, to have "ah ha" moments, and to be inspired.

As a tireless advocate for children, education and community building, High School Educator and Civic Leader Aaron D. Johnson’s mandate is inspiring youth to dare to dream, while helping make their aspirations come to fruition through diligence in higher scholastic heights.

Mr. Aaron Johnson teaches Global Studies, African American Studies and Criminal Justice at Bay Shore Senior High School on the south shore of Long Island, N.Y. In fact, he developed the African American Studies Curriculum Course offered as an elective to sophomores, juniors and seniors, focusing on African Americans in American society from slavery to present. Since its introduction in 2009, that course—which also attempts to make historical correlations to modern day issues in America dealing with race—has been the most-requested elective in the school.

As one of the most passionate and dynamic educators at Bay Shore High School, Johnson is integrally involved in a very diverse school district. Among its 1,900 students, there are a range of ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses. His belief is that a multicultural approach to education is essential in creating an environment where all students feel like they are a part of the education process.

During his esteemed career, Johnson has also served as the keynote speaker for the Choir Academy of Harlem’s Middle School Commencement in 2011, as Master of Ceremonies and co-organizer for the annual Black History Month program at Bay Shore High School, and as Assistance Coach of the school’s basketball team and volunteer coach and mentor with the United North Amityville Youth Organization. He has spoken at a variety of youth organizations.

For his civic involvement, Johnson has received a New York State Proclamation for education and activism from the New York State Assembly, a Citations from New York Assemblyman Philip Ramos for Johnson’s “dedication as an advocate for children,” from Suffolk County Legislator Ricardo Montano for “outstanding achievements and contributions to the betterment of our community” during Islip Town’s celebration of Black History; and from Congressman Steve Israel as a 2012 Honoree during Islip Black History Month for “continuous commitment to serving our community.”

Johnson earned a Doctor of Education from St. John's University and a Master of Arts degree in Liberal Studies (History concentration) from SUNY Stony Brook University. He holds two BA degrees: in Adolescence Education (7–12) & Social Studies from SUNY College at Old Westbury, N.Y., and in History from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven. For the latter, he received a full athletic scholarship for basketball. Upon graduation, he played basketball in Mexico and had multiple offers to play overseas before deciding to remain home and continue his education. Currently, Aaron Johnson is pursuing a doctoral degree from St. John's University.

As an African American high school teacher, Johnson stands tall as one of fewer than 2% in the career demographic. In addition to his lofty achievements, he literally stands tall: at 6 feet and 7 inches. And he is more than an educator: a listener, an adviser and a role model, always striving to be a pillar of excellence and an example of respect, decency, pride and intelligence in the community.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________