Catharina M. Johnson, PhD

Dr. Catharina M. Johnson is the School Safety Program Training Director with the AZ Department of Education. She began her career with ADE as a Program Specialist in the School Safety Program. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Grand Canyon University, teaching psychology courses at both the undergraduate and master’s level. 

Dr. Johnson has a professional background in the juvenile justice system, having worked with the Maricopa County Juvenile Probation department for over 26 years. She has a passion for helping kids and families navigate the justice system, which often overlaps with the behavioral and mental healthcare systems, as well as the education system.

Dr. Johnson currently leads a team of 5 program specialists who provide school safety training to upwards of 3800 individuals who participate in the grant-funded program in AZ schools.