Utica, Mississippi native and one of Morton's principals recently completed her educational journey by earning a doctorate degree.
Dr. Letonia Johnson, who currently serves as Morton Upper Elementary School 3rd & 4th Grade principal, earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Tougaloo College, Masters of Arts in Teaching from Jackson State University in English, Specialist in Educational Leadership and recently her doctorate from Mississippi College.
Completing a doctorate program is the educational pinnacle that Johnson has always dreamed of doing, however is relief to have reached this milestone.
"The word that can best describe my feeling of reaching this milestone is relief," said Johnson. "So many things have occurred since embarking upon this journey that I did not think it would ever be realized."
For Johnson, in the four year span, she lost her father, uncle, aunt, and two cousins all while staying committed to the students and faculty of Morton Elementary and trying to maintain her own physical and mental health. She is a prime example that through hard work, perseverance, and dedication, one can achieve their ultimate goals against all odds.
Through the process, Johnson enjoyed the coursework, however acknowledges that the road to earning a doctorate is a tough one, but with the help of God, the journey has been rewarding.
"As a lifelong learner, I truly enjoyed the coursework. However the dissertation was a two year long, independent, arduous task," shared Johnson. "For every degree I've obtained, I was guided by the voice of God. Education was not my career choice when I left Tougaloo College, but it was where I landed. I've always believed that if there is anything that God asks of me, then it is my duty to give it 100%."
Johnson's future plans is to continue to let God lead the way in her plans. "Whatever it may be, I hope that it is an opportunity to serve the needs of children in a greater capacity."