Ms. Ethel Johnson has retired after 40 years in education, and Mr. Aldophus Wright retires after 50 years at Longview ISD. During their tenure within the district, they have made a lasting impact on hundreds of students and other staff members.
A Heart for Teaching: Honoring Ethel Johnson’s 40 Years in Education
After four decades of shaping young minds, mentoring students, and bringing heart to the classroom, Ethel Johnson is retiring from Longview ISD—a place she has called home for the entirety of her remarkable career.
Ms. Johnson began her journey at Judson Middle School as a reading teacher. “I was nervous. I was 22 years old, and all these seasoned people were there,” she recalled. But with encouragement from her colleagues—and guidance from her uncle, LC Watkins—she found her footing and her calling.
Over the years, she went on to serve at Judson, Forest Park, Foster Middle School, and most recently, the Dade Center. Known for her fairness and calm presence, she built a reputation that extended well beyond the classroom. One moment she still remembers vividly came when a parent questioned a disciplinary decision. Her assistant principal quickly stepped in to defend her character: “Mrs. Johnson never writes people up... she’s about the best teacher at the school.”
Dade Campus Principal Lawrence Hines shared a heartfelt tribute:
“Ethel Johnson has dedicated years to the field of education, serving with unwavering passion and a deep love for her students. Throughout her career, she has been a source of inspiration, consistently going above and beyond to ensure every child felt seen, supported, and valued. Her genuine care and nurturing spirit created a classroom environment where students not only learned but thrived. Ethel’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and an enduring commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.”
As she looks ahead to retirement, Ms. Johnson says she’s most excited for “peace of mind, relaxation, and being with friends.” Her advice to new teachers? “It’s not a money maker. You have to love what you do... and love the kids, even the ones who aren’t the ideal students. You’ve got to have that patience and love.”
Ethel Johnson’s 40-year journey is a shining example of what it means to serve with heart. Her presence will be missed, but her impact will endure in the lives of every student she’s touched.
A Lasting Legacy: Celebrating Adolphus Wright’s 50 Years of Service in LISD
For an incredible 50 years, Adolphus Wright has been a guiding force in Longview ISD—a steady, influential presence whose dedication and warmth have shaped generations of students and colleagues.
“I always tell everybody I came with the building,” Mr. Wright said, referring to his first post at Longview High School when it opened its doors. He began as a ninth-grade math teacher and over the years wore many hats: bus driver, assistant principal, counselor, and eventually Director of Transportation.
His ties to Longview ISD run deep—he’s also an alumnus. “This is my home. I love it here. I don’t think I could’ve worked anywhere else,” said Mr. Wright, a proud graduate of Longview High. His career spanned multiple campuses including Longview High School, Foster Middle School, and the Dade Center, where he continued to serve students even after his formal retirement.
Many students remember his wit and wisdom, especially his weekly classroom bulletin board known as “Thoughts of the Week.” One that still draws laughs: “The higher your monkey climbs, the more you see his behind.”
Principal Hines offered this reflection on Mr. Wright’s career:
“For over 50 years, Mr. Wright has been a pillar of dedication and service in education, leaving a lasting legacy within LISD. Throughout his remarkable career, he has worn many hats… In each of these roles, Mr. Wright has demonstrated unwavering commitment, compassion, and integrity, profoundly impacting generations of students and colleagues alike. His lifelong devotion to education stands as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and heart in shaping young lives.”
To young educators, Mr. Wright’s advice is simple: “Stay in there—it’s going to get better… Don’t give it up.” His five-decade journey is proof of the extraordinary legacy one person can leave in the life of a school district.
ABOUT THE DADE CENTER
Named in honor of Mr. Bennie James Dade, a beloved educator and administrator, the Dade Center serves as Longview ISD’s alternative learning campus. Mr. Dade was the first person in the district to lead an alternative school program, beginning in 1976. A graduate of Grambling State University and a U.S. Army veteran, he served the district for over three decades in various roles, including counselor and administrator, before retiring in 1991. His life’s work left a lasting mark on the district and the students he served.