Retirement may have marked the end of Lauri Johnson’s classroom career, but it certainly did not mark the end of her impact on the Centralia School District community.
Johnson, a beloved longtime music educator who recently retired after serving students at Centralia Middle School and Centralia High School, has been selected as a 2026 WSECU Teacher of the Week through Seattle Sports and MyNorthwest. She was among 24 outstanding educators selected for the honor this year.
The recognition celebrates educators who go above and beyond to inspire, teach and positively impact students, families and their communities. Each Teacher of the Week recipient receives a $500 grant in recognition of their dedication and contributions.
Johnson will be honored in person on Aug. 23, when she attends the game in a suite and receives her Teacher of the Week award from Seattle sports broadcaster Rick Rizz.
For generations of Centralia students, Johnson’s influence extended far beyond music. Through her passion, encouragement and commitment to students, she helped create opportunities for young people to discover their voices, develop confidence and experience the power of music and performance.
Johnson’s selection is particularly meaningful for the Centralia School District community, where her contributions to music education have left a lasting legacy. Her work helped build a strong tradition of music and performance at Centralia High School and created countless memories for students, families and community members.
While she may have retired from teaching, Johnson remains very much a part of the Centralia family.
The Centralia School District congratulates Johnson on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for a career dedicated to helping students find their voice, discover their talents and Rise Strong.
For more information about the WSECU Teacher of the Week program and the 2026 honorees, visit the MyNorthwest Teacher of the Week website.
