MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson will retire at the end of the 2026-27 school year.
Johnson announced her decision Monday during the USD 308 Board of Education meeting. Her final day with the district will be June 30, 2027.
“This will be my last school year as the superintendent of Hutchinson Public Schools,” Johnson said.
Johnson has been with USD 308 for six years, including five years as superintendent. She said the death of her father this summer caused her to reflect on her career, family and what she wants to do next.
“I’ve had an extraordinary career, and I couldn’t be more grateful and proud to have culminated my career as a Salt Hawk,” Johnson said.
Johnson said she believes the district is in a strong position because of its board, district administrators, faculty and staff. She cited improvements in teaching and learning, graduation outcomes, facilities planning and district systems among the accomplishments of recent years.
Johnson said she announced her retirement early because the district has several major projects ahead, including a Nov. 3 bond election, selection of a construction manager at risk and development of a new strategic plan.
“I don’t want anything about me waiting for some reason to then be a distraction to all of the other work that we have to do,” Johnson said.
Following the announcement, board members discussed the process for choosing Johnson’s successor. Members compared superintendent search proposals from the Kansas Association of School Boards and ESDAC/Greenbush.
Both organizations proposed a base cost of $6,500. ESSDACK said its total cost, including travel, would not exceed $7,000, while KASB included a one-year search guarantee.
Board members reached a consensus to move forward with ESSDACK, subject to negotiations and approval of a contract. Members cited the organization’s local presence, relationships with area educators and leadership development services.
The search process is expected to include surveys and focus groups involving district employees, parents and community members. Johnson encouraged the board to begin quickly so early search work can occur in September without conflicting with the district’s bond campaign.
Johnson said she remains committed to leading the district throughout her final school year.