Kari Johnson is the consummate teacher and learner. Although disparate at first glance, these two roles work in tandem—critical for Sarasota County Schools, students, and the Education Foundation, of which she’s a board member. A teacher representative, Kari shares her extensive kindergarten teaching experience, especially with board members who haven’t been in the classroom. She also informs the community as to what’s happening in the classroom.
During a Foundation podcast, Kari shared insights as to why/how teachers need to continually adapt their syllabus to best meet the evolving educational needs of today’s tech-savvy students. Listen to Kari’s contributions on the podcast Education Conversations, episode 3, Our Students Today: A K-8 Perspective.
Fellow board member Jenny Infanti says, “Kari brings an unrivaled level of enthusiasm, championing teachers and students. Our voice of optimism, she provides invaluable insight as to how to best direct our efforts in supporting area schools.” As a current district specialist for the English Language Arts (ELA) program in the elementary curriculum department, Kari supports K-2 teachers in small-group instruction.
Timothy Fergurson, music instructor at Garden Elementary School (Sarasota’s 2023 Teacher of the Year) offers his perspective: “Kari’s positive, optimistic approach to life and education makes collaborating a pleasure. Her patience, listening skills, and calm demeanor allow her to coach others to find their best path forward, the cornerstone of great leaders.” Agreeing with others, he says, “The way she’s nourished her students to reach their fullest potential, she’s having the same effect with an older generation as an ELA program specialist. Kari empowers district educators to enhance their ability to better connect the curriculum with their students, achieving success.”
On the “other side of the desk,” Kari thrives on gaining knowledge from community leaders, district educators, administrators, and colleagues. Proudly, she says, “I’m fortunate to learn with and from our district educators and administrators in order to help boost our students. What an opportunity to help inform and guide, while learning alongside other teachers in this successful program in which the 3rd grade English Language Arts (2023-2024) achievement ranked second among all 67 Florida school districts!” But she has learned most from her kindergarteners.
Keeping students at the center, she aligns with the Education Foundation’s mission: “I’m thrilled to help spread the word of the organization’s important work of promoting excellence in teaching and inspiring innovation in education.” Her dual role of learner and teacher benefits Sarasota students and teachers—bolstering the Education Foundation’s mission.
- How did you learn about the Education Foundation?
I wrote some literacy-related grants supported by Foundation, such as interactive literacy work stations for my kindergarten classroom, in order to strengthen and reinforce early literacy skills.
- Why did you accept CEO Jennifer Vigne’s invitation to join the board in 2022?
I wanted to support the Education Foundation because they’re committed to K-12 students and teachers, ensuring that students are college- and career-ready through its mentorship program. I was also determined to give back to the organization that helped choose me as Sarasota’s 2021 Teacher of the Year. The Education Foundation celebrates and elevates teachers in a powerful way! All teachers deserve to feel valued. This nonprofit builds programs to support teachers in becoming classroom leaders: helping to create space for them to collaborate, network, and use their voice to bolster education.
- Tell us about your board position.
I attend board and committee meetings, striving to share the teacher perspective, especially with board members who have had little classroom experience. My role is to ensure that board decisions support both teachers and students. I’m also honored to meet with many community leaders who seek to sponsor teachers and students.
- What have you learned from your board experience?
It’s inspiring to see individuals from diverse businesses, backgrounds, and experiences come together, genuinely committed to supporting our teachers and students. Witnessing the community’s dedication to prioritizing education is reassuring, as it reflects the strong network of advocates who consistently encourage and uplift educators and learners throughout Sarasota.
- What are some of the things the Education Foundation has been doing for our community teachers? Students?
The Education Foundation amplifies the voices of community teachers, enabling them to make a difference in a child’s life. The organization’s aim is to establish a teacher ambassador at schools to: facilitate the dissemination of information about the Education Foundation, foster collaboration among educators district-wide, and encourage teachers to engage in collective problem-solving. They also provide opportunities for additional connection by teacher Roundtable Talks and bi-weekly podcasts, where educators learn from one another or from other community members. Additionally, the nonprofit is dedicated to enhancing the Sarasota “Teacher of the Year” program. Although they do an exceptional job celebrating our educators, we look for ways to boost these efforts.
- When did you know you were going to educate our youth?
I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I was fortunate enough to have amazing teachers. I remember my first grade teacher, Mrs. Tomasetti, vividly. Learning was challenging. But she instilled confidence, and I achieved my goals. She’s been my role model. Students need a Mrs. Tomasetti in their lives. I want to be a positive influence like her.
- How are your pastimes related to your career? As board teacher representative?
I enjoy reading and listening to literacy podcasts: I’ve also discovered a passion for life-long learning. Going to the gym, shopping, and watching movies with family are other favorite pastimes.
- What would you like to share with fellow educators?
Teaching is one of the most challenging careers, requiring us to wear many hats: caretaker, nurse, therapist, data collector, and more. Teachers must stay positive and consistent. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, set small, achievable goals and work toward them. Challenge yourself and enjoy the journey with your students. Teaching is one of the few careers in which you can be successful professionally while watching someone else succeed. It’s an honor to be called an educator.
Interviewer and author Sandy Chase is a writer, poet, mentor, and avid nonprofit volunteer.