Cedric Johnson’s new job as principal of Grove Street Alternative School means a new environment and a lot of changes for him.

“It’s been interesting but nothing I wouldn’t expect coming from Warren Central High School as assistant principal for a number of years,” he said.

He was used to some of the behavior that takes place with some students.

“It’s still an adjustment for me — not just to know the students, but staff as well.”

He is currently spending his time assessing the needs of the school and the students.

Johnson said there are a lot of changes that will be coming to Grove Street.

“We’re trying some new things and some changes were made because of STAR Academy,” he said.

He’s hoping this opportunity will give him a chance to affect change at the school.

STAR Academy is for students who are two years behind and designed to catch them up to their graduating class.

“One of the things the community will begin to see is STAR academy for 8th grade students. They will enter high school next year as 10th grade students. They’ll be in their correct grade.”

He said he hopes this helps with the graduation rate at the school.

Johnson foresees the school having more programs that will benefit the students at the school.

“This place has been known as the “bad kids,” and we don’t want to be known as that anymore.”

Johnson said that’s part of the reason he wanted the job. He has a vision of change for the school.

He said some students don’t do well in a typical school setting. Some of them need extra counseling and the academic side needs improvement.

Johnson will be hiring more certified teachers.

“I’ve developed a passion for students we may consider ‘at-risk.’ I want to offer the same opportunities for them,” he said.

When it comes to the secondary students, there is not a lot of discipline problems.

“We’re working with young people to help them and to assist them. We’re trying to move away from the attitude that you’re here because you’re a bad student.”

This is just another opportunity for these students to reach their academic goals. He’s looking forward to offering more programs to help students.

Johnson has always wanted to be an administrator.

He received his undergraduate degree in Health and Physical education from Jackson State University in 1996. He then went to Delta State and received his Master’s degree in 2003 for Educational Administration.

He is currently working on his Doctorate at the University of

Southern Mississippi.

Johnson completed his administrative internship at WCHS and when he finished his degree in 2003 he worked there for seven years.

He worked at Forest Hill high school in 2010-2013 before returning to the district to work.

He is working closely with staff to create a better school for students.

“The first time I met with the staff I told them we’re all on the same team. We’re here for the needs of the children.”
He said that’s his main focus.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the adults as well as the students and seeing this facility grow.”

He studies every day to see what he can add or offer to initiate change and growth.

He has a four-year old son named Derrick who attends New Hope Christian School and his wife Tiffany Hills-Johnson is a public relations specialist for Xerox Company.