"Our students deserve the best educational experience possible."

Marla Johnson is a proud native of Matteson, IL, and the daughter of a lifelong educator. As a product of the public school system, she deeply understands the transformative power of education and the importance of ensuring every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities. She is also the sixth member of her family to graduate from Rich Township High School District 227, taking great pride in her alma mater, Rich Central, and its rich legacy.

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Currently, Marla serves as an educational administrator, dedicating her career to advocating for students across Illinois and beyond. As a leader in the southern suburbs, she spends countless hours engaging with students and families throughout the Southland. Early in her tenure, she witnessed firsthand the systemic inequities in public education. Driven to create change, she became a steadfast advocate for historically underrepresented students, working tirelessly to expand access to exceptional educational opportunities. Her passion for advocacy has led her to serve on state-level committees, ensuring that policymakers remain informed about the realities of schools and the impact of educational policies on the communities she serves.

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Beyond education, Marla is a recognized innovator known for her business acumen and collaborative problem-solving. She is frequently sought after for her ability to develop creative solutions across various industries. She holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Digital Marketing from The University of Alabama in Huntsville and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Illinois Springfield.

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Former Government Relations Committee Member - Illinois Association for College Admissions Counseling

Former Secretary – Young Democrats of Illinois

Former Civic Engagement Chair – Dallas-Fort Worth Urban League

Endorsed by:

Rich Township High School Teachers and Classified Staff Union

Run For Something

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