“GRPS Champions” is a web series published every Monday celebrating the incredible work of GRPS team members.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- This week's GRPS Champion is Haiden Johnson, an elementary teacher at Brookside Elementary School. Known for her passion for teaching and love for her school, Johnson’s dedication shines through in every aspect of her work.
“The best part of my job, hands down, is the incredible community we serve at Brookside,” Johnson says. “The rich mixture of students, families, and heritage is something I wish everyone could experience.
Johnson is continually inspired by the dedication and determination her students show as they strive to learn and grow. “It’s truly contagious, and it makes every day inspiring.”
Her journey with GRPS began during college, where she completed multiple internships within the district, including at Congress Elementary and Harrison Park Academy. She recalls being struck by the passion and dedication of the teachers she met during that time.
“I fell in love with the hardworking teachers and the passion they had for our scholars,” she explains. Knowing that GRPS was a district committed to scholar success, she decided to join the GRPS family. Now, five years into her role at Brookside, Johnson continues to be driven by the same passion and dedication that initially drew her to the district.
Johnson has made it her mission to build strong relationships with both scholars and families. Whether it’s attending sporting events, participating in the parent teacher community council, instructional learning team, or serving as Brookside’s testing coordinator, she is always finding ways to stay connected with her community.
She also earned her Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages endorsement to better serve her scholars, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed.
“I take great pride in the way students see themselves in my classroom -- the belief they gain in their own abilities, and the sense of accomplishment they feel when they walk out of school knowing they’ve achieved something,” Johnson says.
With a commitment to community, a passion for teaching, and a heart for her scholars, Haiden Johnson is a true GRPS Champion.
