Questar III BOCES is pleased to announce the appointment of Emma Johnson as its new Director of Health and Safety.
“Emma Johnson has a background in public health, emergency management, and school safety,” Questar III BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Gladys I. Cruz said. “Her experience supporting K-12 schools across the country, combined with her background in state-level health and safety initiatives, will assist us in providing safe, supportive learning environments for students, staff, and component school districts.”
Johnson holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a dual focus in Emergency Management and Public Health Policy, as well as a post-graduate certificate in Threat Assessment and Management in K-12 Schools. Her career has focused on advancing health and safety across a range of settings, with a strong emphasis on education and public service.
Most recently, Johnson served as a health, safety, security, and emergency services provider for K-12 schools nationwide, working primarily with independent and charter schools. In this role, she supported school communities in preparing for and responding to a wide range of safety and public health challenges.
Prior to that, she worked with the New York State Department of Health as a Program Administrator in the Occupational Health and Safety unit, supporting initiatives designed to protect employees and facilities across the state. She began her career with the New York State Division of the Budget, where she focused on public health programs through grant and fiscal management.
Johnson stated that her interest in health and safety is rooted in a long-standing drive to work in dynamic environments where preparation and teamwork are critical.
“I’ve always been energized by fast-paced, ever-changing environments where preparation, teamwork, and quick thinking truly make a difference,” she said. “That mindset naturally guided me toward public health, safety, and emergency management. I’m drawn to the constant evolution of the field, the opportunity to collaborate with dedicated teams, and the ability to make a real, meaningful impact when it matters most.”
She noted that her connection to education is both professional and personal.
“Education has always been a meaningful part of my life,” Johnson said, adding that both of her parents are educators and leaders. “After having the opportunity to support schools nationwide, it’s especially exciting and rewarding to bring that experience back home to the Capital Region.”
Throughout her career, Johnson has partnered with a wide range of schools and programs, navigating complex challenges such as crisis response and public health emergencies. She noted that those experiences have strengthened her ability to lead with confidence, remain adaptable, and support teams in high-pressure situations.
Together, her professional expertise and personal connection to education position her to lead Questar III’s health and safety efforts and support schools in maintaining safe, secure, and responsive learning environments.