Round Hill Elementary welcomes new Assistant Principal Farid Johnson

Washingtonville Central School District is proud to welcome Farid Johnson as the new assistant principal of Round Hill Elementary School. 

With more than 20 years of experience in education, Mr. Johnson has remained committed to one mission: helping students succeed, no matter their circumstances. 

Mr. Johnson began his career teaching special education in the South Bronx before stepping into leadership roles across the Hudson Valley. He has served in various school districts, including Hastings-on-Hudson, North Rockland and Pelham. Most recently, he was principal at Siwanoy Elementary School, following his tenure at Stony Point Elementary School.

His journey into education wasn’t a straight path, but one he now sees as a calling. After graduating from Hastings High School, he earned his first degree in Business and Finance from Manhattanville College. However, a summer job at a camp and a well-timed grant opportunity at his alma mater led him to teaching shortly thereafter.

“I was sitting on the couch when my foster dad, Fred, showed me an ad for a grant to join Manhattanville’s accelerated teaching program,” he recalled. “I applied, wrote an essay inspired by my late sister, Azizza, and was accepted. That moment changed everything.”

Azizza, who had special needs and passed away during her first year of college, remains his greatest inspiration and the reason his work has always been rooted in advocating for students who are struggling.

“Everything I do, I do for her,” he said. 

Since then, Mr. Johnson has earned a second master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Bank Street College and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Executive Leadership at St. John Fisher University. 

Manhattanville wasn’t only the place where Mr. Johnson earned his first two degrees; it was also where he first met Superintendent Dr. Larry Washington playing pick up basketball on Saturday mornings.

“We were talking for an hour and a half before we realized,” he laughed. “I thought he looked familiar and then we figured out why.”

Mr. Johnson’s background in sports, playing basketball and football for most of his life and now golf, has played a major role in shaping his character and leadership style both on and off the court.

“Basketball taught me perseverance, teamwork, composure under pressure and communication,” he said. “The benefits of sports go far beyond being athletic – it builds community and you’re always learning something new. That's why I won't stop playing until I can't walk.”

Over the years, the basketball court has led him to meaningful connections, including the chance to play against former President Barack Obama – and win. (Pics to prove it below!)

At Round Hill, Mr. Johnson is especially excited to partner with Principal Kristin Shaw. 

“She’s awesome,” he said. “We both bring different strengths, and I think that’s going to benefit the whole community.”

While his leadership style emphasizes continued personal growth and always striving to be your best version everyday, he also believes in being visible, approachable and compassionate.

“I’m the biggest kid in the room,” he joked. “Kids can spot a phony a mile away. You have to be genuine. You have to care.”

As assistant principal, Mr. Johnson looks forward to building relationships, breaking down barriers and celebrating his favorite holiday: Halloween.

 “Any day I get to dress up and have fun with the kids is a great day,” he smiled.

Outside of school, he and his wife, Rachel, who is also a teacher, stay busy with their three daughters, Aubrey, Skylar and Esme. He is also a devoted sneaker collector, with more than 60 pairs in his rotation.

Now, as he steps into this new chapter, Mr. Johnson is ready to serve the Washingtonville community with humility, humor and heart. 

“At the end of the day, it’s not about me — it’s about the kids,” he said. “If you lead with that in your heart, everything else falls into place.”