The Maryland State Board of Education today appointed Dr. Henry R. Johnson, Jr., as Assistant State Superintendent for Curriculum and Assessment.

In his new position, Dr. Johnson will be responsible for leading the Department’s team charged with implementing the new Common Core State Standards and coming Next Generation Science Standards, as well as the assessment programs related to the Maryland curriculum.

“Dr. Johnson has been an exemplary leader and educator, and he comes to the Maryland State Department of Education at a critical time,” said State Superintendent of Schools Lillian M. Lowery.  “His experience and vision will pay off for schools across the State as we continue to move our classrooms forward.” 

Dr. Johnson is a long-time teacher and administrator in Maryland and Virginia public schools.  Most recently, he spent 10 years as principal of Northwood High School in Montgomery County.  He began his career as a social studies teacher in Norfolk, VA, working in the classroom for 15 years before moving on to administration.  Dr. Johnson also has served as an adjunct professor of education, first at Old Dominion University and later at the University of Maryland and Trinity University.

Dr. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech, a master’s in education administration from Old Dominion, and a doctorate in education, also from Virginia Tech.