BOISE - The State Board of Education named Dwight Johnson as its new Executive Director. Johnson has served as the interim director since October 2005.
Prior to working for the State Board of Education, Johnson spent 11 years with the Idaho Commerce and Labor Department as its assistant deputy director.
"The Board is excited to have Dwight as our executive director on a permanent basis," said Rod Lewis, President of the Board. "Dwight has the ability to forge consensus and work with stakeholders in the Legislature, Idaho's colleges and universities, and in school districts across Idaho.
In addition to his duties at the Commerce and Labor Department, Johnson has served twice as the Interim Executive Director for the Idaho Rural Partnership and was a key staff member to Governor Kempthorne's 2020 Blue Ribbon Task Force. During Governor Phil Batt's administration, Johnson was a member of the Governor's Welfare Reform Advisory Council that led to the welfare reform initiative. He also served as lead staff to Governor Batt's Workforce Development Cabinet group that created the consolidated Workforce Development Council.
"As a father of four, I know that nothing is more important than the education of our children. Education is the key to a better life and a more competitive Idaho. From my days at the Commerce and Labor Department, I understand that a strong economy and a vibrant education system go hand in hand," said Johnson.
Johnson has a master's degree in public administration from Boise State University, a bachelor's degree in political science from Brigham Young University and an associate's degree from Ricks College. He grew up in Idaho Falls and is a graduate of Bonneville High School.
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