WASHINGTON, D.C. (NewsDakota.com) – Dr. Steven L. Johnson, Superintendent of Fort Ransom School District and Co-Chair of the Legislative Committee for the National Rural Education Association (NREA), recently represented North Dakota at NREA Hill Days in Washington, D.C., March 23–25.

Johnson joined rural education leaders from across the country to meet with federal policymakers and national organizations to discuss issues impacting rural schools. He met with staff from the offices of U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, focusing on federal programs that support rural districts, including the Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP), educator workforce development, and student opportunities. Johnson also encouraged North Dakota’s congressional delegation to support increased REAP funding in the FY2027 federal budget and contacted Julie Fedorchak regarding a bipartisan sign-on letter supporting the program.

Johnson participated in national briefings with leaders from the U.S. Department of Education, Committee for Education Funding, All4Ed, National Grange, and the Build America’s School Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC).

“Dr. Johnson represents the kind of leadership we need in rural education,” said Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Executive Director of NREA. “His experience in North Dakota reflects the realities many rural communities face, and his voice helps shape meaningful conversations at the national level.”

“Nearly three-fourths of North Dakota’s school districts rely on REAP funding,” Johnson said. “For rural schools, these programs are essential to maintaining opportunities for students and communities.”

Johnson serves on the North Dakota Small Organized Schools (NDSOS) board and continues to advocate for strong rural schools across the state.

Feature photo: L to R; Dr. Steven L. Johnson, U.S. Senate staff member, and Fred Nolan from Minnesota Rural Schools Association.