Cheltenham Names New Assistant Schools Superintendent

CHELTENHAM TOWNSHIP, PA — The Cheltenham School District has named a new assistant schools superintendent.

The Cheltenham School Board of Directors at its meeting on Tuesday night approved the hiring of Kendra V. Johnson, who officials said has over three decades of experience.

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Johnson will begin her tenure with Cheltenham on June 15 as an administrator on assignment before her contract begins on July 1.

Johnson’s career in education began in 1996 as a science teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools.

Over three decades, she has been a tireless advocate for students, families, and communities — spanning small, mid-size, and large suburban and urban districts.

Her journey has included pivotal roles such as science teacher, science department chairperson, assistant principal, principal,
area assistant superintendent, Title I coordinator, instructional director, chief academic and innovation officer, assistant superintendent for equity, associate superintendent, community superintendent, and superintendent.

As a first-generation college graduate, Johnson passionately “believes that a high-quality education is a transformative force — one that liberates, affirms, and empowers.”

In 2009, as one of two Baltimore County Public Schools principals to lead their schools out of state-labeled school improvement status, she spearheaded a three-year turnaround effort that resulted in double-digit gains in student achievement (in reading, mathematics, and each student group).

In her central office leadership roles, she has been at the forefront of innovation, driving initiatives such as the Seal of Biliteracy, the creation of a district-level student advocate position, and pioneering an Algebra-based Physics course.

A nationally recognized thought leader in student access and achievement and recipient of the Thurgood Marshall Award from the Montclair NAACP, Johnson is the co-author of two Corwin-published manuscripts and an international publication focused on dismantling systemic barriers in education.

Beyond her professional achievements, Johnson is a resolute civic leader, as a member of the NAACP, leader of the nonprofit arm of KVJ Consulting, LLC, and providers of pro bono legal services in special education and estate planning.

A devoted member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for 32 years, she holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Lincoln (Pa.) University, a master’s degree in administration and supervision from Johns Hopkins University, a Juris Doctor with concentrations in public interest and business law from the University of Baltimore School of Law, and a doctorate in urban educational leadership from Morgan State University.

Licensed to practice law in Maryland and New Jersey since 2003, she brings a distinctive legal and educational perspective to her work. In her personal time, she enjoys vintage shopping, reading, spending time with loved ones, and unwinding with movie nights alongside her life partner, Reginald.