Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Johnson.
Hi Courtney, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I was an elementary school Principal and the district (Alpine School District) asked me to open a new high school in Eagle Mountain, Utah. A committee of community, students, and parents gathered to select a name, school colors, and a mascot for the school. After several meetings and looking at thousands of submissions, we determined that Aviators fit our educational purpose perfectly. It had academic upsides with STEM and was fitting because of the two airports in the communities that the school would serve.
Being a successful Aviator requires a combination of skills. It’s not all mathematical and technical. Aviators also have to think creatively, act under pressure, and adopt a mentality fitting for a role of such great responsibility. Aviators not only require leadership qualities — they also have to communicate and work well as part of a team.
I have always loved aviation. My father was a fighter pilot in the Air Force, I obtained my private pilot’s license in high school and met my husband in commercial flight school. My husband is a Life Flight pilot and we both love how flying brought us together. I attended Brigham Young University to earn a B.S. degree in education so I could fly for Western Airlines. During my student teaching, I realized that I loved teaching and changed my career path.
When I was a teacher, I used principles of flight to teach children math concepts more deeply and excitingly. We calculated weight and balance, fuel estimations, ETA’s, and distances, and used other aviation data to make math come alive. It worked! Math can be so fun when applied to exciting world contexts.
As the principal of Cedar Valley High School, we built an aviation program where students can earn an Associate in Aviation Science from UVU all on our campus. We have the largest aviation program in the state and I love how these classes combine STEM and exciting aviation adventures! Our team has made a concerted effort to make CVHS focus on rigorous academic pursuits and aviation fits that focus perfectly.
In addition to our aviation program, we also prioritize motivating students to participate in rigorous college classes. Cedar Valley High School has one of the largest Concurrent Enrollment programs in the valley. In 2021, CVHS received the Momentum Award for having the highest percentage increase in student participation in English and math. In 2022, we received the UVU’s Diversity and Inclusion Award in addition to the UVU’s Completion Award for the most students earning their associate’s degree. AP courses are also an area of focus.
I currently serve on the Utah Rotor Pathway URPP committee which is the first-in-the-nation program that brings together industry professionals and educational institutions. The focus is to address pilot and other aviation shortages. I love my job and especially my students and teachers. I am part of a great team and feel so fortunate to go to work every single day!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Opening a new high school was the biggest challenge, yet… it was the most rewarding experience of my life. Late nights and long hours with my team made Cedar Valley High School the special school that it is.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a public education high school principal in Alpine School District. We are the Aviators and have one of the most unique mascots in the country. Our school is beautiful and full of aviation symbols.
From the Wright Brothers’ bi-pane suspended in our commons to airline seats around the building, students are reminded daily that they need to reach for the stars, aim for the horizon and soar to new heights.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Communicate the process and never panic even when you don’t have all the facts, carry on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cvhs.alpineschools.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cedarvalleyhigh/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CedarValleyHigh
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cedarvalleyhighschool4415
