The Okaloosa County School District is pleased to announce Tracy Y. Johnson, Childcare Coordinator for Southside Primary School’s Tiger Cub Care Program (pictured above), as the 2026–2027 Educational Support Professional of the Year. With 17 years of service to the district, Johnson has dedicated her career to supporting children and families through her leadership, compassion, and commitment to providing quality care and educational opportunities. In her role at Southside Primary, she oversees daily operations of the Tiger Cub Care Program, including staff, student safety, and family communication, while creating a welcoming, nurturing environment where children can learn and thrive.
One of Johnson’s most significant accomplishments has been helping establish Tiger Cub Care from the ground up. Under her leadership, the program became a licensed School Readiness childcare provider, allowing eligible families to access childcare assistance through Early Learning Coalition vouchers. This achievement has expanded access to dependable childcare for families in the community. Johnson’s passion for working with children began as a teenager serving as a teacher’s aide in a Head Start summer program. She holds a Child Development Associate credential, Florida childcare staff and director credentials, and pediatric first aid and CPR/AED certification.
“Educational support professionals are essential to the success of our schools. They are often the people working behind the scenes to ensure our students, families, and teachers have the support they need each day,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Ms. Johnson’s dedication to Southside Primary and her work to expand childcare opportunities for families are wonderful examples of the impact one person can make. We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for 17 years of service to our students and district.”
The district also recognizes this year’s finalists, Jacquelina Ward of Bob Sikes Elementary School and Coretta Johnson of Wright Elementary School. Both finalists demonstrate an exceptional commitment to supporting students, staff, and their school communities. Their contributions reflect the important role educational support professionals play throughout the Okaloosa County School District. The Educational Support Professional of the Year recognition celebrates the outstanding contributions of dedicated employees who help create positive learning environments and support student success across the district.
