Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson is an Assistant Professor of English Education at San José State University, where she prepares future teachers to empower secondary students through culturally responsive pedagogies. She serves as Undergraduate Advisor for the Single Subject Preparation for Teaching, English program. Her work integrates digital literacies, critical theory, Hip-Hop culture, and participatory action research to foster inclusive learning environments in linguistically diverse settings.

Education includes a PhD and MPhil in English Education from Columbia University, an MA in Media Culture & Communication from NYU, and a BA in Ethnic Studies from UC Berkeley. Her professional background includes 16+ years coaching competitive high school debate, founding the Teachers College Debate Institute at Columbia’s Institute for Urban and Minority Education (IUME), and developing debate-focused curricula for pre-service teachers.

Johnson’s research emphasizes equitable pedagogical practices, with a focus on leveraging oral language, debate methodologies, and community-based learning to advance literacy and civic engagement. She has designed and taught courses on oral language development and teacher education across multiple institutions, including Manhattanville College’s School of Education.