Dr. Russell Johnston is the superintendent of the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District in Pennsylvania. Recognized for his unwavering commitment to equitable and high-quality education, Russell Johnston has dedicated his career to fostering environments where all students can thrive. His journey, marked by impactful leadership roles in Massachusetts as a superintendent and Acting Commissioner, reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of strategic vision and collaborative action to elevate educational outcomes for every learner.

Before joining the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Johnston served as the Superintendent of West Springfield Public Schools from 2010 to 2014. During his tenure, the district saw a notable increase in the graduation rate and a decrease in the dropout rate, alongside gains in student performance. He also focused on curriculum rigor, collaboration with the teachers’ association, and family engagement.

At the Massachusetts DESE, Johnston held the position of Deputy Commissioner, where he led the state’s accountability and assistance system. His responsibilities also included overseeing initiatives to assess effectiveness, monitor improvement, and identify interventions for schools and districts with a particular focus on improving outcomes for students with disabilities. In March 2024, he was appointed as the Acting Commissioner of Education for Massachusetts, a role he held until March 2025. He led the agency’s efforts to align its efforts toward a unified educational vision based on excellence and equity for all students.

Earlier in his career, Johnston also served as a special education teacher and administrator.