Brimhall Jr. High School, Mesa
Mesa Unified School District
8th & 9th Grade Social Studies
"As a young man, I began to catch the vision of being an educator as I studied the events surrounding the founding of our country. Our founding fathers understood and implied the importance of learning truths (knowledge) as stated in the Declaration of Independence. We as a people cannot enjoy or exercise the power of rights, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness without the energy (education) that gives it direction and focus. The strength of our nation, our states, our culture, and our dreams, are founded upon the dedication of teachers who love their students and teach them these same self-evident truths. I decided to become a teacher because I desired to be like those who taught me, inspired me, cared about my future and the future of this country."
"Giving young people an opportunity to apply the knowledge, and practice the citizenship skills they acquire from the classroom makes their lives fuller and their community a better place to live. As students use new knowledge and new skills, by sharing and teaching others, they become masters of that knowledge and learn the importance of being contributors to the communities in which they live. I strive for my teaching to offer a breadth of view, an ease of understanding, a tolerance for others, and a background from which the mind can explore in any direction. In summary, Ben Franklin expresses my approach to teaching best: 'Speak little. Do much.'"
Mr. Johnson's co-worker writes: "Brimhall Junior High School has become a dominant force in the area of public service. As Service Learning Coach and Coordinator, Larry assisted more than 270 9 th grade students clock more than 21,000 service hours to the school and community during the 2003-04 school year. He has encouraged not only students to become involved but has challenged the staff to find innovative ways to service the community. Teaching and encouraging students to help each other and their neighborhoods provides them a greater sense of purpose and hope for the future."
Mr. Johnson earned his Bachelors degree in Secondary Education History and Elementary Education as well as his Masters degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. Mr. Johnson was given Brimhall Jr. High School's Most Improved Teacher Award in 2001. He has been a teacher for 22 years.
