Celebrating 20 Years of Educator Impact
In this edition of our “20 Years, 20 Stories” series, we feature Natalie Johnson—a Texas educator whose long-held dream of teaching came to life through the support of Teachers of Tomorrow. A 2013 program graduate, Natalie’s journey from paraprofessional to assistant principal is a story of passion, leadership, and the lasting impact of mentorship.
Meet Natalie Johnson
Teaches: Former Elementary Teacher, Now Assistant Principal
State: Texas
Program Completed: 2013
From Dream to Decision
Natalie always dreamed of becoming a teacher—but initially pursued a different path. After majoring in marketing and management at Baylor University, she returned home unsure of her next move. She accepted a position as a paraprofessional at Beneke Elementary, her childhood school, and that’s when everything changed.
“Once I took my certification test and things of that nature, my first assignment was actually part-time, half-a-day in Pre-K at my old elementary school. Loved it,” she recalled. “I remember my principal at the time, she said, ‘Girl if I had known that you could do all of this, I would have been pulled you out of that front office.’”
The Support to Succeed
Natalie enrolled with Teachers of Tomorrow to become certified, and the program gave her the tools to confidently step into the classroom.
“It was the stepping stone and the key piece to doing what I love. So it was critical… The level of preparation, the level of support… Teachers of Tomorrow does not leave a stone unturned.”
As she grew into a leadership role, Natalie saw the program’s impact extend beyond her own experience.
“Ms. Gwendolyn Mays was the Field Supervisor for several of our teachers. Phenomenal woman. Supported our campus, supported our teachers. We love Teachers of Tomorrow.”
From Teacher to Campus Leader
After several years in the classroom, Natalie pursued her master’s degree in education and passed the Principalship Exam. Her leadership journey began with a Student Support Specialist role, which eventually led to her current position as assistant principal at Ponderosa Elementary.
“It was very tough to leave that campus,” she said of Beneke. “In my mind, I always thought I would be principal at that campus. It just didn’t work out that way… The transition was tough. I felt like I was leaving my family. That was all I knew. So that was tough and also rewarding.”
Moments That Stick
One moment at a local restaurant reminded her why she chose this career.
“I met up with some teachers… we are enjoying dinner and I see one of my former students who now works there. She comes up to us and says I was her best teacher and that I always made learning fun and how all of the things I communicated stayed with her. I was up in Gringos crying.”
Natalie uses that moment as a reminder to her staff.
“You don’t always see what we are pouring into these kids at this stage… It’s likened to when you plant a seed. You don’t see what’s happening beneath the soil, but eventually, you see something sprouting. You have to continue nurturing and providing those basic needs in order for it to grow and be successful.”
Advice for Aspiring Educators
Natalie encourages future educators to stay grounded in their purpose and remain flexible as they grow. She knows firsthand how much the role can stretch you—but also how rewarding it becomes over time.
“There’s always more to do than there is time in the day,” she said. “It’s a matter of prioritizing.”
For Natalie, effective leadership is about being present, supportive, and committed to both students and staff. Her focus on building strong relationships and leading with empathy continues to guide her every day.
Thank You, Natalie
Thank you, Natalie, for staying true to your calling and leading with dedication and purpose. Your journey is a powerful reminder of the impact educators make—both in the classroom and beyond.
Inspired by Natalie’s story? Start your own journey to the classroom with Teachers of Tomorrow.
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