An interim Superintendent has been hired for the Harlan Community School District. The Harlan School Board, Monday evening, approved a contract for Lynn Johnson, who currently serves as the Arlington, Nebraska District Superintendent, and is retiring on June 30th. In their press release, officials said after receiving feedback from several groups and the interview team, Johnson was identified as the right choice to lead the district based on her experience and qualifications. Johnson must obtain her Iowa superintendent license before she can officially begin work on or about July 15th.

Interim HCSD Superintendent Lynn Johnson

The District says Lynn Johnson earned a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration in 2007 from Wayne State College. Her Masters in Secondary Administration was issued from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 1991. She also has a Bachelor of Science in Math Education Degree from Fort Hays State University an Associate of Arts Degree from McCook Junior College.

Johnson has served as the Arlington School District superintendent for the past ten years, after previously serving as their Secondary Principal. Some of her notable accomplishments include oversight of an $8 million dollar addition/renovation project and 3 million dollar HVAC project. She also successfully helped pass a bond issue for the district, implemented Professional Learning Communities (PLC’s) and expanded course offerings for students. In her application, she said, “I can offer Harlan a servant leader who is passionate about public education and about working hard for our students and staff.”

In the press release, Johnson said she was excited to accept the position, and “Have the chance to join a school environment that is welcoming and committed to excellence.” She said she looks forward to “Continuing the journey of building dreams for our children with the board, staff, and patrons of Harlan Community Schools.” Lynn is married to her husband Steve, who is a teacher and coach in the Arlington School District. The couple has four children (including a daughter-in-law) and most recently one grandchild. They enjoy time with family, sports, physical activity, and all student activities.

Grundmeyer Leader Services will once again assist the district in recruiting and hiring the next long-term superintendent, a process that will begin in November, with more stakeholders involved in the process.