Manson Elementary School announces new principal

Students at Manson Elementary School will see a new principal when they return to class this fall.

The Manson School District announced Thursday that Anita Johanson was hired as the next principal of Manson Elementary, according to a district news release. She replaces current principal Ben Riippi, who will transition to principal of Manson Middle School and director of state and federal programs.

Johanson is currently a science and leadership teacher at Manson Middle School and joined the district in 2018.

Johanson is a National Board certified teacher and also served as summer school director, after-school director and ASB adviser in Manson.

Before joining the district, she worked in Pateros as director of federal and state programs and also taught in the Cascade School District.

The district said Johanson has been heavily involved in strategic planning efforts and student leadership programs across the district.

Superintendent Tabatha Mires called Johanson a thoughtful, student-centered leader who values relationships and community connection.

"She believes deeply in developing leadership in students and staff, building strong relationships, and creating schools where students feel known, supported, challenged, and connected. Anita brings both leadership skills and a deep commitment to Manson," Mires said.

Johanson said she is excited for the opportunity and called Manson a community she deeply cares about and has invested in.

"Manson is more than just a place I work," Johanson said. "I love everything about our schools and the unique sense of pride, community, and family that I feel when I walk through the doors or when I'm watching one of our sporting events."

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