Damon Johnson
1993
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Damon Johnson, a proud graduate of East Kentwood High School (Class of 1993), serves as Assistant Principal at Crestwood Middle School, a role that holds profound personal significance. Having grown up within the Kentwood Public Schools system, attending Bowen Elementary and Crestwood Middle School himself, Damon now dedicates his career to inspiring the next generation of students within the very community that shaped him.
A former standout wrestler at East Kentwood, Damon excelled both on and off the mat. He earned All-Conference and All-State honors, becoming a member of the first graduating class to complete the 1000 rep club. This demanding sport instilled in him the values of dedication, discipline, and perseverance – qualities he now strives to cultivate in both students and staff. Following his high school graduation, Damon pursued his passion for education at Grand Rapids Community College before earning his Bachelor's degree from Johnson C. Smith University, alongside two close friends who shared his dream of making a difference. He began his teaching career in Grand Rapids Public Schools, gaining valuable experience and mentorship. Damon returned to Kentwood, where he taught fourth grade at Hamilton Elementary School and later at Explorer Elementary for 12 years, nurturing young minds and leaving a lasting positive impact. Today, he brings his wealth of experience to his role as Assistant Principal at Crestwood Middle School, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and belong. Reflecting on his educational journey, Damon acknowledges the profound impact of Kentwood Public Schools. He emphasizes that "Kentwood Public Schools taught me that you do not have to be the best at something in order to be successful. You just have to be willing to put in the work." One of his most cherished Kentwood memories involves his freshman year of high school, when his wrestling coach took him to observe some of the state's top wrestlers in Battle Creek. "My coach stated that I would be down there competing in a few years," Damon recalls. "I remember thinking, 'yeah right... not me.' Two years later, I was in Battle Creek competing with the best. This experience made me realize the importance of having an impactful individual believe in you. That belief can be so powerful that eventually you start believing in yourself!" |
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