Dr. Michael Johnson began his tenure as Alaska education commissioner in July 2016. Prior to that, he served in the Copper River School District as superintendent; school principal; district curriculum and staff development director; elementary teacher; and special education program assistant. During his time as principal, Glennallen Elementary was recognized as a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.

Johnson earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Columbia International University and holds a doctorate of philosophy in education and intercultural studies from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He is a recipient of the prestigious Milken Educator Award.