51 Years and Counting!

Fifty-one years ago on February 16, 1970, Rosa Johnson’s journey as a public school employee began. It’s the only job she has ever had and the school where she works is the only one at which she has ever been employed.

Johnson is the data manager at Laurel Mill Elementary School in Franklin County, where she also serves as the treasurer and is responsible for payroll. She comically lets on that she has three jobs, but only gets paid for one. However, she’s not complaining because she loves what she does.

“This job has kept me, it has saved me, because I have had so many personal losses over the years,” said Johnson, a native of Franklin County. “God has richly blessed me, and my goal is to richly bless the lives of others, especially these children.” She shared that she graduated from the school when it was Gold Sands High School (prior to being named Laurel Mill and transformed into an elementary school) and was interviewed for the job by the school’s former principal.

Johnson is one of thousands of Education Support Professionals who helps keep public schools running and one of thousands who will be celebrated on November 17 as part of American Education Week. Although eligible for retirement, she continues to work at the school from which she graduated because of her love for public education. “I had plans to retire in 2000 but began thinking, ‘I’m fairly young and there is no need to retire and get another job when I already have one that I enjoy. Let me continue working for a while longer.’ But I never anticipated staying another 20+ years.”

Laurel Mill Elementary is a small, low-income school situated in a very rural part of the state. Johnson, who lives one-eighth tenths of a mile away, said there are some students who don’t have running water in their homes. “We are a tight-knit community. We know our parents, we know our students, and we know their needs and do our best to provide for those needs. I know we’re living in a time of social distancing, but if they come in for a hug, they’re going to get it. I may not be in the classroom, but I’ll do whatever I can to connect with them, put a smile on their faces, and give them hope.”

When asked what accomplishment she is most proud, she said gaining the respect of colleagues, not only at her school but throughout the district. “I treat people the way I want to be treated. There again, I love people and I enjoy connecting with them.” She is also proud of her two children – daughter, Renee’ who is an educator in Franklin County and a son, Jay who lives in Arizona – and her three grandsons, Jaylon, age 17; Alex, age 14; and Ian, age 12.

Not only is Johnson a proud member of the public education community, but she is also a proud member of NCAE and has been for many years. “I can’t remember what year I joined, but being a member is important to me. The additional support gives me peace of mind and connects me with like-minded people who want to see the profession grow and thrive.”