March 2, 2026 — Congratulations to Tiwana Johnson, a dedicated paraprofessional at Brookview Elementary, on being named the district’s 2026 School-Related Employee of the Year.
For 14 years, Johnson has been a constant source of encouragement and support for students, staff, and families. Known as the “heart of Brookview,” she is often the first person colleagues turn to for guidance and insight, said Principal Lecreshia Harris.
“Coming in as a new principal, she was like a breath of fresh air because there was so much I didn’t know,” Harris said. “Every time I asked about different aspects of the school, people kept saying, ‘Ask Miss Johnson.’ Once I began working with her, I understood why. She truly knows it all. She is the heart of Brookview.”
Johnson works with students from pre-K through fifth grade, serving as an extension of the classroom teacher and a steady presence throughout the building. Whether helping a student master phonics, understand fractions, or build confidence in a small group setting, Johnson steps in wherever she is needed — and always with a smile.
“Miss Johnson has a heart of gold,” said Harris. “She loves children, she loves the Brookview community, and she loves this school. Her son attended school here and now works here as a paraprofessional as well. This school means so much to their family. She loves the parents, the students, the faculty, and the staff — and they all know her.”
Harris said Johnson’s impact goes beyond academics. From the moment students step onto campus, they are looking for Johnson. She sponsors patrol, leads the spirit committee, and organizes many of the school’s activities and events.
Harris added that Johnson’s skill and passion in the classroom have even sparked conversations about her becoming a teacher one day.
“I truly believe she would make a phenomenal teacher. She already has such a huge impact on our students,” Harris said. “When a struggling student finally gets it, you see a spark — not just in the child, but in her as well. She walks them through everything step by step. The passion and love she shows is inspiring.”
In addition to being named School-Related Employee of the Year, Johnson also received the prestigious Tony Boselli Hyundai Unsung Hero Award, further recognizing her extraordinary dedication and service.
Johnson was selected from a group of 10 inspiring finalists who were honored during a special ceremony on Feb. 27. The finalists included:
Wanda Bonner – Holiday Hill Elementary
Tanja Boswell – Southside Estates Elementary
Ricardo Griffith – Sandalwood High
Tiwana Johnson – Brookview Elementary
Sanford Leigh – Joseph Stilwell Middle
Lashaundra Morrell – Normandy Village Elementary
Gequanda Murray – Alfred I. DuPont Middle
Tracey Phelps – Crown Point Elementary
Brittanni Sheppard – Thomas Jefferson Elementary
Michelle Wahl – Fort Caroline Elementary
Congratulations to Johnson and each of the finalists who work each day to ensure Duval Delivers!