Katherine Coleman Goble Johnson was an American mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics and trajectories as a NASA employee were critical to the success of early U.S. crewed spaceflights. Highlights of Ms. Johnson’s career:
In 2015, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
In 2016, presented with the Silver Snoopy Award and a NASA Group Achievement Award.
In 2016, featured in the movie Hidden Figures in 2016.
In 2019, awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by the United States Congress.
In 2021, inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame.

Today, March 21, 2022, the Bethel School District opened its newest elementary school, named in honor of Katherine G. Johnson at 17015 Waller Rd E, Tacoma, WA.

Elementary STEM staff dressed in NASA flight suits and many teachers and staff wore NASA t-shirts for the occasion. s students assembled before class in the gym to watch the Superintendent cut the ribbon among cheers from the kids and staff.

The school took several months more to build than originally planned due to COVID restrictions and supply chain setbacks. Today, a mostly mask free student body was ready to start learning in their brand new school.

STEM = Science Technology Engineering Math