Huron Valley Schools has selected Amanda Rivers as the new principal of Johnson Elementary School, bringing an experienced educator and district leader to the role as preparations continue for the start of the 2026-27 school year.
Rivers joins Johnson after serving the past three years as Huron Valley Schools' District Behavior Specialist, where she led and facilitated professional learning across the district on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). In that role, she partnered with teachers and administrators to strengthen student support systems, build positive school culture, and provide consultation, strategies and support for students with behavioral needs.
Before joining Huron Valley Schools, Rivers spent nine years as a special education teacher in West Michigan, supporting students with emotional impairments at both the elementary and secondary levels.
She earned her bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University and her master's degree from Grand Valley State University.
Throughout her career, Rivers has been passionate about supporting students, empowering staff and creating positive school communities where everyone feels valued. She believes strong relationships, collaboration and a shared commitment to student success are the foundation of an exceptional school.
"I can't wait to partner with all of our amazing staff, students and parents to make this a supportive, fun and thriving school year," Rivers said. "I'm excited to become part of the Johnson community, learn about the traditions and strengths that make Johnson so special, and build strong relationships that help every student succeed."
Rivers and her family are also part of the Huron Valley Schools community. She has two energetic sons, ages 2 and 4, with the oldest beginning junior kindergarten in Huron Valley Schools this fall.
"Amanda is no stranger to Huron Valley Schools," Superintendent Dr. Paul Salah said. "She has led learning across our district regarding PBIS systems of support while providing consultation and strategies for some of our most behaviorally challenged students. Amanda has a systems-focused mindset and is eager to work alongside our staff to support the students and families of the Johnson community. I have a high degree of confidence that Amanda is going to hit the ground running to build relationships in service to our families."
Rivers will take over for Principal Ryan Smith whose last day was August 3rd.