The AlumNow series showcases former students’ post-graduation successes.
We recently caught up with Ashley Johnson, who is now a social worker for Dallas ISD in Graduation, Recovery, Attendance/Advocacy and Dropout Intervention (GRAAD). Read about how her educational journey at Dallas ISD impacted her to give back to her community.
What high school did you graduate from and what year did you graduate?
School of Health Professions at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center in 2008.
What is your current occupation?I’m a social worker for Dallas ISD. I started Kindergarten at J.W. Ray Elementary School and moved on to James B. Bonham (now known as Solar Preparatory School for Girls at James B. Bonham) for first through third grade. I then attended John F. Kennedy Learning Center (now known as Solar Preparatory School for Boys at John F. Kennedy Learning Center) for fourth grade and got a wonderful opportunity to attend George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Academy from fifth through eighth grade.
The Montessori method embraced my need for hands-on learning, independence, and discovery within the classroom and world. My time at Dealey heavily influenced my decision to apply to Townview where my need for kinesthetic learning was fulfilled in my cluster classes. Being a part of a unique learning experience influenced how I operate in my career and the opportunities I seek out such as direct community outreach events, advocacy for at-risk students and families, and volunteer opportunities where I am able to serve others.
What are some career or personal highlights/accomplishments?
- Obtaining licensure through Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council as a licensed master social worker in March 2020.
- Being a part of the inaugural team to support the launch of the Phoenix 2.0 program during the 2021-2022 school year in Dallas ISD.
- I was sworn in as a CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocate, volunteer in May 2022 to work with foster youth in Texas DFPS, Department of Family & Protective Services, conservatorship.
- Bachelor of Social Work (Texas Woman’s University, 2012)
- Master of Science in Family Studies (Texas Woman’s University, 2016)
- Master of Social Work (The University of Texas at Arlington, 2018)
- Licensed Master Social Worker (licensed as of 2020)
Who was your favorite Dallas ISD teacher or what was your favorite course?
I don’t have a favorite teacher, but my grandmother, Nina Sue Embry, was one of the most influential Dallas ISD employees I can remember. I attended school with her kindergarten through third grade and she is the reason I eventually attended Dealey Montessori. I can remember going to her classroom where she worked with students receiving special education services at J.W. Ray and Bonham elementary schools. Her niche of working with diverse student populations in education is eventually what led me back to Dallas ISD as a licensed master social worker. She always stressed the importance of learning and growing which I try to instill in the students I work with in secondary education.
What are your responsibilities as a social worker for Dallas ISD?
I work with some of the district’s most at-risk students who may struggle with attendance or accelerating through middle or high school. I monitor student data within the Phoenix 2.0 program and select reconnection centers to assist in improving academic outcomes and overall well-being. I provide psychoeducation to students who are experiencing personal and psychological issues that impact performance and behavior. I also provide consultation to school administration, staff, and parents regarding student needs and concerns. I have also done community outreach at events like the Mayor’s Back to School Fair and Neighborhood Schools Night Out.
What advice, if any, would you offer to students who are interested in your career field?
Dallas ISD has some of the most unique and diverse schools for all students, from elementary to high school. These schools give students opportunities to be exposed to careers, trades, extracurricular clubs, and activities that may not be available to them outside of an educational setting.
My advice to anyone wanting to become a social worker: find a school that interests you and caters to your learning style and career choice, become active in school activities and clubs that will expose you to diverse populations, take on leadership roles in school clubs and organizations that will help you grow, cultivate your problem-solving skills, and give you a sense of purpose, volunteer at places where those who are vulnerable or in need may go for resources or services (ex. nursing home, food pantry, hospital, foster care agencies). Although I became a social worker, my health cluster classes provided a solid foundation that I used at social work internships during my undergraduate tenure.
Don’t be afraid to fail, because if you don’t fail you won’t grow!
