New Science Supervisor Named For Princeton Public Schools

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Public Schools on Tuesday announced the appointment of a new science supervisor for the school district.

Joy Barnes-Johnson will be the Supervisor of Science effective Wednesday, the school district said. His appointment comes after the departure of Mridula Bajaj.

Barnes-Johnson has a Ph.D. in Urban Education/Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Temple University with a primary focus on STEM education teaching. In addition, she has a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Montclair State University, and a B.S. in Chemistry from Johnson C. Smith University in North Carolina.

She has taught science at Princeton High School since 2007.

"Dr. Barnes-Johnson is known for her intellect, her leadership, and her compassion," Carol Kelley, Superintendent of Princeton Public Schools said in a statement.

"She has received many honors, she has impeccable academic credentials, and she is known as an eloquent advocate for students."

Board President Dafna Kendal said that Barnes-Johnson is held in high esteem in the community and among PPS students.

"The Board is thrilled that we have such an accomplished and prominent educator to take the helm of the science department for grades 6-12," Kendal said. "Dr. Barnes-Johnson, with her many years of experience at Princeton High School, is known for empowering students and inspiring colleagues. She is an innovator and a leader who over the past 15 years has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to our students and our community."

Back in May, students and teachers at the school district told Patch they were “extremely alarmed” and “concerned” about the departure of then Science Supervisor Mridula Bajaj. More: Princeton Students, Teachers Concerned As Science Supervisor Departs

Students and parents wrote to Board members with their concerns and a petition on change.org called on the BOE to explain the recent spate of staff departures.

Barnes-Johnson was recognized by the New Jersey Department of Education in 2021 as an Exemplary Secondary Educator. She has also been honored by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) with the MLK Jr. Human & Civil Rights Award.

Barnes-Johnson began her teaching career in Montclair, has taught for more than 20 years with a focus on chemistry, material science, environmental science, and STEM-related humanities studies.

Additionally, she has published articles that address teacher preparation, policy and curriculum design. She has led professional development programs for the district, for individual schools, and in the community. She also helped create, facilitate, and teach the racial literacy course at Princeton High School.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com