HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Schools (USD 308) Board of Education announced today that Superintendent Dr. Dawn M. Johnson will retire at the end of the 2026-2027 school year, concluding a distinguished career of service to students, families, and staff in the district.
Dr. Johnson has served as Superintendent of Schools for Hutchinson Public Schools since July 2022, leading a district of more than 4,000 students and nearly 1,000 staff members. Her tenure capped a 34-year career as a public educator in Kansas, during which she served as an English teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent.
“Dr. Johnson has been an outstanding leader for Hutchinson Public Schools. She has always kept students at the center of her work and has led our district with integrity, experience, and a clear focus on doing what’s best for kids. Her leadership has made a positive difference for our students, staff, and community. We know this was a significant and deeply personal decision for her, and we respect her decision to conclude an exceptional career in education at the end of this school year. Fortunately, there is much work ahead and we look forward to working alongside her as she continues to lead the district throughout the year.” said Lance Patterson, President of the USD 308 Board of Education
“It has been an incredible blessing to lead Hutchinson Public Schools and to serve alongside such dedicated, talented staff and a phenomenal Board of Education. I am tremendously proud of what we have accomplished together, and I believe I am leaving the district at a time where we have very strong momentum and a clear sense of purpose. Being a Salthawk has been the culminating experience of my public education career. I often joke that I have 94 retirement points when it only takes 85 to retire, and I think that is probably a pretty good indication that it is time to pass the baton. The recent and sudden passing of my father has also given me a different perspective on time and on the seasons of our lives. After more than three decades in education, I know the time has come for me to make more room for family, travel, and the people who matter most. Until June, however, I am still fully committed to this district, our students, our staff, and the important work ahead,” said Dr. Johnson.
In addition to her career in public education, Dr. Johnson has served with distinction in the United States Army Reserve, currently holding the rank of Brigadier General as Deputy Commanding General for the 88th Readiness Division. Her military career spans 41 years, where she has commanded a division, a brigade, two battalions, and two companies. She has deployed in support of Operation New Dawn/Iraqi Freedom in Iraq and Kuwait, and has also served in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Germany in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Her military awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal, among numerous other honors.
Dr. Johnson holds a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from Wichita State University, a Master’s in National Security Resource Strategy from the National Defense University Eisenhower School, a Master’s in Educational Administration from Wichita State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in English. She also completed the National Security Management Course at Syracuse University.
Superintendent Search
The USD 308 Board of Education is committed to a thorough and transparent search process to identify the district’s next superintendent. The Board’s goal is to complete the hiring process no later than January 2027.
The Board has selected ESSDACK to lead the search for Hutchinson Public Schools’ next superintendent. Additional details will be announced as they become available.
