Her Story
About Courtney
Courtney Johnson, is an accomplished education professional with a career dedicated to supporting students, families, and educators. She currently serves as Education and Special Services Manager at Harris County Department of Education, where she brings extensive experience in educational leadership, program development, student services, and family engagement. Her professional journey has included roles in nonprofit organizations, charter schools, and educational programs serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Her passion is centered on helping students and families achieve academic goals that may initially seem difficult or unattainable while fostering collaborative partnerships that promote long-term success. Johnson has built her career through both administrative and teaching-related roles, with a particular focus on early childhood education and family development. She previously served as a School Leader at Harris County Department of Education and spent nearly a decade with BakerRipley, where she held positions including School Leader/Principal, Assistant School Leader, Family Development Worker, and Program Coordinator. She also served as a Clinical Case Manager II with DePelchin Children's Center and began her career in Head Start and charter school programming. Johnson earned her bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2006 and a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 2011. She also completed an education certification through Cornell University and earned her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Xavier University of Louisiana. Her commitment to education is reflected in her membership in Kappa Delta Pi, the International Education Honor Society, as well as her involvement with Jack and Jill of America and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She has also been recognized as an Employee of the Year. Throughout her career, Johnson has remained committed to creating enriching learning environments and strengthening the connections between schools, students, and families, particularly in underserved communities. She pursued family development education to deepen her understanding of family dynamics and the factors that can influence student achievement. Her approach is grounded in faith, perseverance, compassion, and a belief that challenges should become opportunities for growth. Johnson encourages students, families, and colleagues to work collaboratively, remain persistent when faced with obstacles, and continue striving toward meaningful academic and personal goals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Courtney
01What do you attribute your success to?
Attributing their success to both their faith and parents who emphasized education and hard work. They expressed gratitude for their parents' strong parenting approach, noting how important it is for children to develop independence
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to use “no” as motivation rather than allowing it to discourage me. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, improve, and continue moving forward. I have learned to view challenges and rejection as part of the growth process, using them to strengthen my skills, refine my approach, and remain persistent in pursuing my goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Advice for young people entering the workforce, with the speaker emphasizing the importance of observing and listening before speaking. They noted that while textbooks provide foundations, real-world experience requires different approaches
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges in the education field, particularly regarding new entrants who lack dedication and proper communication skills. The speaker highlighted issues with younger professionals who prefer text-based communication over phone calls and struggle with adapting their approach to different situations. They also noted concerns about career changers entering the field who lack the innate understanding needed to work effectively with children.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith and perseverance are among the most important values in both my work and personal life. I believe in walking by faith rather than by sight, trusting the process even when the path ahead is uncertain. I also value persistence and resilience, especially when facing challenges or setbacks. These principles encourage me to remain focused, continue learning and growing, and keep moving forward with confidence and purpose.
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