We were lucky to catch up with Rodrick Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Rodrick , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Joey is the boy who was in school by eight and sent home by 9 AM because he was labeled a problematic child. Joey tried his hardest to get it together, but she could only get a “fair” rating on his behavior chart. His teachers didn’t know Joey had significant issues that the medicine or robust one-size-fits-all behavior systems couldn’t fix. He needed support and direction, but he got tough love!

At a young age, Joey learned that his name was Rodrick, and he said he would be a teacher to heal and support students who came up through the foster system like him. Rodrick was an exceptional teacher. He would get the most challenging students and mold them into leaders. People didnt know his method, but they knew his impact. His favorite quote was, “Give me the support of the students that need it because I know what they need.”

Later, Rodrick became a coach with a lot of energy, and people called him Mr. Sunshine, but he didnt think that was it. He prayed, and it came to him in 2023 that he needed to transform into an energized educator because that was his true calling.

Rodrick , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For those who may not know me and for those who know me as Rodrick, I’d like to reintroduce myself as the Energized Educator. My enthusiasm reflects my passion. I am an award-winning, highly effective educator and a former Positive Behavior and Support chair.

I have gained clarity on which teachers manage behaviors and which are addressed by the administration. My professional development included 40 hours of restorative practices, de-escalation training, and the unique experience of being placed in behavior roles as a Black male.

I have shifted the focus to my journey. I was once labeled a problematic student and faced significant challenges as a young scholar. I believe students need more than cookie-cutter support—I became a teacher to uplift children like myself.

My achievements are testimony to this mission: I received the Joy of Baltimore Unsung Hero Award, attained PBIS Gold Status for two schools consecutively as chair, developed innovative behavior systems, and eliminated outdated Behavior Ladders. Additionally, I coach three schools in behavior and culturally appropriate practices, managing a team of five dedicated individuals to raise awareness around these essential topics.

Through my education consulting business, I have found healing for my inner child, represented by my mascot, Joey. This journey empowers me to help teachers see children differently and manage behavior effectively in urban settings, especially for Black boys.

Have you ever had to pivot?

As a new business owner, I thought teaching teachers how to read data was the way to go. I then realized that teachers were looking at data and focusing on compliance systems but not catering to students’ holistic needs. Disengaged students are much more important to me, impacting their overall success. I remember my story and how my teachers treated me. I prayed about it and figured out a way to make more of an impact by doing something that was not about money but the service of children.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Speaking at conferences has been a great way to meet clients. I try to work with people who share my energy, and I am an in-person kind of teacher. Having people meet me at conferences and want to gain a partnership with me is the best thing about what I do. Although most of my clients are not from Baltimore, I feel the impact is important to the longevity of this program.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.energizededucator.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energizededucator/
• Facebook: Rodrick Johnson
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/energizededucator/
• Twitter: https://x.com/energizededu
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EnergizedEducator