Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnecia Howard.
Hi Johnecia, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey in education over 20 years ago after graduating from Hampton University in 2003 and earning my master’s degree from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville in 2005. My first classroom was in a small charter school in Monticello, Arkansas, where I taught 3rd–8th grade math. Those early years sparked my passion for both instruction and leadership.
From there, I joined eStem Public Charter Schools in Little Rock, where I spent more than a decade growing as an educator, coach, and leader. I started as a PE teacher, coach, and athletic director, eventually becoming high school principal. Along the way, I was honored as Arkansan of the Year in 2014, opened the state’s first public charter school on a college campus, and helped guide our high school to some of the top graduation and college acceptance rates in Arkansas.
As my responsibilities expanded, I moved into district-level leadership, mentoring school directors whose schools ranked among the top in the state for academic growth. Two of these directors were later named Arkansas Charter Leaders of the Year, and another advanced to an assistant superintendent role. Supporting others as they grew into impactful leaders remains one of my proudest accomplishments.
In 2022, I became Chief Operating Officer at eStem and later brought that experience to Freedom Preparatory Academy as Chief Operations Officer. Now, as Executive Director of Tennessee at FPA, I see the through-line of my career clearly: a deep commitment to students, to building excellent schools, and to developing strong leaders who carry that mission forward.
In her spare time, Johnecia enjoys spending time with her sons, husband, and family.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t describe the journey as smooth, but I truly see every challenge as preparation. Each obstacle has stretched me in ways that ultimately made me a stronger and more compassionate leader. In education, we are entrusted with the incredible responsibility of shaping and protecting the lives of children—the most important people in our world. That work requires patience, empathy, and the ability to lead even when circumstances are difficult or uncertain. Families place their deepest hopes and expectations in us, and while navigating miscommunication or differing perspectives can be challenging, those very moments have taught me the power of listening, understanding, and building trust.
Looking back, I realize that none of the struggles were wasted. They gave me resilience, sharpened my vision, and deepened my passion for serving children and families. The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been purposeful—and for that, I’m grateful
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work at Freedom Prep centers on creating excellent schools that give children—regardless of their background—the opportunity to thrive. I specialize in building strong teams, developing leaders, and creating systems that ensure both students and teachers can do their best work every day. What I’m known for is my ability to bring vision and strategy together with a deep sense of care for people.
What I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve been able to have on students and families. Seeing children grow academically, socially, and emotionally because of the environment we’ve created is the greatest reward. I’m equally proud of the leaders and teachers I’ve had the privilege of mentoring, many of whom have gone on to lead schools and initiatives of their own.
What sets me apart is the way I lead with both heart and discipline. I believe in holding high expectations while also leading with empathy, understanding that every person—student, family, or staff member—comes with their own story. I don’t just want schools to succeed on paper; I want them to be places of joy, belonging, and transformation.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Memphis is its spirit. There’s a deep sense of resilience, pride, and community here that you can feel everywhere—from the way people show up for each other to the way the city embraces its rich history, culture, and music. Memphis is full of creativity and authenticity, and I love that the city’s soul is reflected in the people who call it home.
What I like least is the inequity that still exists. Too many of our children and families don’t yet have the same access to opportunity, resources, and support that they deserve. But even in that challenge, I see the strength of Memphis: this is a city where people roll up their sleeves and fight for change. That determination is part of what makes me proud to live and work here.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://freedomprep.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedom_prep_charter_schools/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreedomPrepMemphis
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/freedom-prep-charter-schools/
- Twitter: https://x.com/FreedomPrepAcad
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Freedom_Prep_Academy
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnecia-howard-8193bb137/
