Pamela Johnson – Class of 1976

Pamela Johnson was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa in 1957 and lived there for 5 years. She attended Kindergarten for 1 month before the family moved to Omaha. Pam attended Laura Dodge Elementary, Morton Junior High and Burke High School graduating in 1976.

Following high school, Pam worked a short time at Mutual of Omaha before starting college in 1976. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education from the University of NE at Omaha. Pam began her teaching career as a Title 1 Merit Paraprofessional for 1 year at Gilder Elementary and then taught 1st grade there for 11 years. While teaching 1st grade, Pam began working on her Master of Science in Education which she finished in May of 1990. Pam transferred to Sunnyslope Elementary and taught Kindergarten for 2 years. She participated in many professional development classes enhancing her teaching and leadership skills. Pam became a Peer Support Teacher mentoring new teachers in the district. During this time, Pam completed her endorsement in Educational Administration and Supervision and became an Assistant Principal at King Elementary. Pam was Principal at Pinewood Elementary for 6 years until her passing in January of 2010. She was most proud of the Pinewood staff and students when the school won the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School Award in 2006.

Pam enjoyed her years at Burke making many lifelong friends who were a great support to her in her career and throughout her illness. Pam and her high school friends began a Christmas Tea tradition during high school. The ladies will be celebrating their 50th Tea this year! Dr. John Makiel, retired Superintendent, was one of Pam’s teachers at Burke and hired her as a Principal for OPS.

Pam was highly regarded as a friend, teacher, and administrator in OPS. She enjoyed and valued many close friendships with her colleagues. Pam was a dedicated educator and leader who guided her students and coworkers with kindness, wisdom, and compassion. Throughout Pam’s life, she was a positive and enthusiastic person who loved her career as an educator and impacted the lives of many people.