Dr. Shamika Johnson Named New Principal at Newburg Middle School

Experienced JCPS educator pledges to be an equity-centered leader

By Juliann Morris 

September 28, 2022—Dr. Shamika Johnson plans to bring a strong focus on building relationships, culture, and equity as a mindset to Newburg Middle School when she becomes principal on October 3.

Johnson currently serves as an Academy Principal at Seneca High School.

Shamika Johnson smiling

“I’ve had a lot of opportunities as an assistant principal to be equity-centered with my students,” she said. “I’m excited now to lead my own building and want to continue that rich tradition of a sense of belonging and equity for all.”

In her 16 years as an educator, Johnson has also worked as a secondary assistant principal at Iroquois High School, a computer applications teacher at duPont Manual High School, and an adjunct professor at Indiana University Southeast. 

“We are thrilled to welcome aboard Shamika Johnson as the next great leader at Newburg Middle School,” said Dr. Nathan Meyer, assistant superintendent of Accelerated Improvement Schools. “Dr. Johnson will be an exceptional collaborator, communicator, and visionary leader for Newburg students, staff, and community. She will set high educational expectations and keep the positive momentum already occurring at the school.”

Johnson earned a doctorate of Education from Spalding University, an education leadership certification and a master of science degree in Secondary Education from Indiana University Southeast (IUS), an alternative certification in education from Kentucky State University, and a bachelor of science degree in Computer Information Systems from IUS.

At Newburg, Johnson said she intends to nurture and build multicultural, rigorous, and student-centered learning opportunities that focus on the whole child. Her priorities also extend to helping staff grow as leaders who use data to drive a strong awareness of and commitment to racial equity. 

Joining Newburg—which offers a Mathematics/Science/Technology (MST) Magnet Program—is “almost like coming full circle,” said Johnson, who began her career teaching computer science. Her instructional roots and deep experience working to prepare high school students for postsecondary success will benefit Newburg, she said.

“My whole career has been in high school, so I have a solid understanding of what it takes to be postsecondary-ready, to earn industry certifications, and to graduate, and I’m excited to help prepare Newburg students for that next step,” she said.