January 7, 2008

TISD Mourns the Loss of Former Austin Elementary Principal

           Tyler ISD is sad to announce that long-time TISD educator, Mrs. Gladys A. Johnson, died Saturday afternoon, January 5, 2008.  Mrs. Johnson had a total of 47 years experience in education.  Twenty-six of those years were in the Tyler Independent School District.    Mrs. Johnson provided dedicated service as T. J. Austin Elementary Principal from 1984 to1995.  In August of 2007, the school recognized her leadership by naming the new T.J. Austin Elementary School Library in her honor.

“TISD lost a good friend,” said Tyler ISD Superintendent Randy Reid.  “TISD extends its deepest sympathies to her family.  We want them to know we truly appreciate her dedication to the students and staff at Austin Elementary.”

In addition to the position of principal for Austin Elementary, Mrs. Johnson served as a teacher, coach, and an elementary school counselor for Tyler ISD.  Her education experience included a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Masters of Education degree in Guidance. 

            "Gladys Johnson dedicated her life to educating children.  She was passionate about public education and worked diligently as a teacher, counselor, principal and a Board of Trustee member to ensure that all children were given the opportunity to learn, said TISD Board of Trustee president Brad Spradlin.    “Mrs. Johnson will be deeply missed by all that knew and worked with her.  I consider myself very blessed to have known her and to have served with her on the TISD board." 

            After retiring in 1995, Mrs. Johnson still played a role in the education of the students of Tyler Independent School District. She served as a Tyler ISD Board of Trustee - District 2 representative for seven years.  During Mrs. Johnson’s term on the Tyler ISD School Board, the Board was named 2005 Outstanding Texas School Board of the Year.

            Funeral arrangements for Mrs. Johnson are pending.

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