FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Next Chapter: New Heights Charter School of Brockton Announces Its New Principal

BROCKTON, MA — New Heights Charter School of Brockton is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Ondrea Johnston as its new Principal. Following a comprehensive search process that integrated valuable input from students, families, staff, and community members, Dr. Johnston emerged as a visionary leader uniquely equipped to guide New Heights into its next chapter of excellence.

Dr. Johnston brings more than two decades of distinguished experience in education to the role. She most recently served as a Regional School Leader for Boston Public Schools, where she coached school leaders and instructional teams to drive continuous school improvement. Prior to that, as Head of School at Ruth Batson Academy, she successfully led the merger of two school communities, managed a $13 million budget, and cultivated a unified, inclusive campus culture.

“Throughout the interview process, Dr. Johnston consistently demonstrated a student-centered approach, thoughtful leadership, and a genuine excitement about joining the New Heights community,” said Omari Walker, Executive Director of New Heights Charter School. “I am confident that she will build strong relationships with our students, families, and staff while advancing the exceptional work already taking place across our school.”

What profoundly resonated with the selection committee was Dr. Johnston’s unwavering commitment to college access and educational equity. Her notable achievements align seamlessly with the core mission of New Heights, which is to prepare our students for college. Period.

At Ruth Batson Academy, she established a robust Early College program in partnership with UMass Boston, allowing high school students to earn college credits early. She helped launch the first university-assisted community school within Boston Public Schools, bridging the gap between higher education and K-12 student success. These experiences align closely with New Heights’ mission of preparing every student for college success.

Dr. Johnston holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Boston College and a Master’s degree in Mathematics for Teaching from Harvard University. Her extensive background reflects a deep dedication to supporting educators and ensuring that students, particularly those from historically underserved communities, have the resources to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

The New Heights leadership extends its deepest gratitude to the staff, students, and parents and guardians whose feedback and insight were instrumental throughout the search process.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Johnston to the New Heights family as we continue our shared mission to close the college gap and empower the next generation of leaders.

About New Heights Charter School of Brockton

Founded in 2016, New Heights Charter School of Brockton prepares all its students to earn free and transferable college credits while in high school. Many of the school’s students take college courses starting in 9th grade, and all students will have the opportunity to graduate from high school with at least 12 college credits. New Heights’ goal is that half of the school’s graduates will have earned 60 or more college credits from our partner schools, Massasoit Community College and Bridgewater State University.

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