Superintendent's Message

Dr. Johnson
Savanna School District Superintendent

As we begin the 2026–27 school year, I’m filled with optimism and gratitude. Each new school year brings renewed energy, new possibilities, and another opportunity to help every child grow, thrive, and discover their potential. It’s a privilege to serve a community so deeply committed to preparing Today’s Learners to become Tomorrow’s Leaders.

Nothing is more important than ensuring our students and staff feel safe and supported at school. A secure learning environment is essential to student success. When students feel safe, they are better able to focus, participate, build relationships, take academic risks, and engage fully in learning. Staff members are also better equipped to devote their attention to teaching and supporting students when they know help is immediately available if a concern arises.

Over the summer, we completed significant infrastructure improvements to strengthen our emergency response capabilities. This year, staff members at every school will begin wearing crisis-alert badges that allow them to discreetly request assistance or initiate an emergency alert with the press of a button. The system can immediately notify school and District leaders—and, when necessary, emergency responders—supporting a faster, more coordinated response when every second matters.

The badges provide an added layer of protection throughout the school day. By allowing staff to request help quickly and discreetly, this technology can reduce response times, limit disruptions, and help address concerns before they escalate. It also allows staff to remain with and support their students rather than having to leave the classroom to seek assistance. Savanna is proud to be the first school district in the state to implement this wearable crisis-alert technology districtwide. This important investment complements our partnerships with local law enforcement, the support of our School Resource Officers, and our work with TeamKids to build positive relationships among students, first responders, and the community. Although we hope these badges are never needed, families can feel confident knowing our staff members have another powerful tool to protect students, colleagues, and visitors. By strengthening safety, preparedness, and peace of mind, we’re also protecting the conditions students need to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

This year, we’re building on that foundation through increased teacher collaboration, thoughtful improvements to instruction, and a continued focus on the individual needs of every student. The districtwide implementation of Professional Learning Communities will give our educators dedicated opportunities to examine student progress, share effective practices, and work together to improve outcomes. We’ll also begin piloting new math instructional materials as we evaluate how best to provide students with a strong and engaging academic foundation.

Some of the most powerful learning happens when children have opportunities to create, perform, explore, and take on new challenges. I continue to be inspired by the growth of our Visual and Performing Arts program, which brings dance, theatre arts, and choral music to students throughout the District. Hansen School’s selection for the highly competitive Disney Musicals in Schools program is an especially exciting milestone—one that will create memorable experiences for students while strengthening theatre arts across Savanna.

Our commitment to students also extends beyond the traditional classroom and school day. Through W.I.N.G.S., students can explore STEM, the arts, athletics, leadership, and other interests in a safe and engaging environment. At the beginning of the educational journey, our B.R.I.G.H.T. Learners Academy provides children ages 18 months through 4 years with nurturing early learning experiences while welcoming families into the Savanna community.

These programs and improvements are important, but they are only possible because of the people behind them. I see our mission reflected every day in educators who encourage students to persevere, staff members who create caring and welcoming schools, families who reinforce the importance of learning, and community partners who generously share their time and resources. Most of all, I see it in our students—their curiosity, creativity, resilience, and excitement remind us why this work matters.

Thank you for your trust, partnership, and continued support. I encourage you to stay connected through ParentSquare, our school and District websites, and our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages. I also invite you to participate in school activities and celebrate the many accomplishments of our students and staff throughout the year.

I look forward to all we will accomplish together in 2026–27. With a shared commitment to safety, learning, and opportunity, we’ll continue making Savanna a place where every student will succeed.

--Dr. Johnson, Superintendent