I am writing to voice my support for Gina Johnson in her role as athletic director at Pioneer. She is a highly respected person who has worked with enthusiasm, thoughtfulness and great care to make Pioneer’s athletic program a successful and supportive community for all students.
Pioneer’s athletic program’s ethos is that any student who wishes to play on a team is welcome and embraced as an athlete, regardless of their initial abilities. The opportunity to play, move one’s body and be part of a team is crucial to the physical and mental health of a young person.
I believe that Gina Johnson is wholly responsible for providing and promoting this value. I have seen her with her students and I trust her completely with my daughters and nieces in her role as a teacher, coach and administrator. In fact, my niece, who suffered a couple of concussions in the past two years was well served by Gina’s support and good care.
Pioneer has been lucky to have such a exemplary staff member for all these years. Gina Johnson has always put the success, safety and well being of students first. I cannot think of a better person to be working with students. She is the best of Pioneer. I am distressed by the decision to remove her from her position as AD.
I am concerned as always about the reputation of the school. I am concerned and disgusted that this could be seen as a case of misogyny. I continue to be deeply disappointed by the choices that have been made by PVRS administrators who include Principal Kevin Burke and Superintendent Jon Scagel and the School Committee.
Deborah Potee
Northfield