- Sedalia School District 200
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Johnston’s mission: Help students, staff reach their goals
Chris Johnston, the Sedalia 200 district’s psychologist, was hired this year to ensure the mental health of both students and staff.
Wade Norton, Smith-Cotton High's principal, said: “He should be able to help the counselors focus on academics and he can work on mental health. The counselors will always be open to listen, but he is that ‘in-between.’”
Johnston attended Southwest Baptist University, where he majored in Christian Ministry. He has two children; his son is a freshman at Knob Noster and his daughter is a senior at Warrensburg High. With his wife teaching in Knob Noster while his son attends school in Knob Noster and his daughter is at Smith-Cotton's rival school; home life can be interesting for Johnston.
His work life is just as interesting. Johnston goes to Smith-Cotton Junior High, Smith-Cotton High School, as well as Whittier High to focus on mental health of teenagers. He doesn't stop there, however; he also coaches wrestling in Knob Noster. Johnston is a busy man, but stresses that he always has a listening ear.
Another interesting thing about Johnston's career is Cocoa, his therapy dog. The 6-year-old female poodle also loves to help people.
“She’s here to help students defuse,” Johnston said. “She helps calm down students who need it - kind of like a big, fluffy, loveable, stress ball.”
While Johnston’s focus is on the mental health of students, he also helps relieve the counselors of their overwhelming schedules, allowing them to focus more on academics. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Nancy Scott said Johnston was hired by the district to help students achieve their goals.
“Mr. Johnston’s role is to be available to work with students who are in crisis and also to meet with students on a consistent basis when needed,” Scott said.
Johnston said, “If my door is open, I am willing to sit and listen.” He added that his chosen field, psychology “is a people field. I love people.
“Having a love for people doesn't always mean you have the answers,” he said. “It means you are willing to listen, willing to help them find out how to achieve their goals, and you like working with people to help achieve what they want to achieve. If I get one small part in helping someone achieve their goals, that is mission accomplished.”