The Spark of Learning: Meet Elder Johnson
At the foundation of every school is the curriculum. Behind every course at AHS Worldwide is a team dedicated to thoughtful design, careful planning, and a passion for interactive and engaging learning. An important member of our curriculum building team is Elder Johnson. Elder Johnson is currently a Service Missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was drawn to serve here at American Heritage Worldwide because of a need for help in the video production team. As time went on we took notice of his skills in editing and he moved to helping build and organize curriculum design. Our curriculum team works continually to refine and improve course content. Throughout this process he has been able to give insights and flexibility to the team.
Elder Johnson working
Faith in the learning process
In his role on the curriculum team, Elder Johnson helps design and refine courses with a focus on clarity and student engagement. For him, effective learning goes beyond simply presenting information—it’s about helping students discover what excites them. When asked how students learn best, he shared:
“Kids need to learn how to learn. They develop that more as they get older, but I think the biggest way we can help is by teaching them to be excited about stuff. Each person has topics and hobbies that spark something in them. Students should have the tools to recognize that spark and keep it alive.”
This perspective shapes how he approaches curriculum development, always looking for ways to make learning meaningful and engaging for each student.
Elder Johnson talking with the curriculum team
This mindset is closely tied to his faith. The gospel of Jesus Christ has been a strong anchor in Elder Johnson’s life, shaping both his perspective and his work. He is a firm believer in humility, especially in the learning process. As he explains:
“The Spirit magnifies my efforts and turns them into something that I could never do myself.”
Another gospel principle that has influenced his outlook is the idea that joy is central to God’s plan:
“Men are that they might have joy. God wants us to rejoice, and He’s given us a world full of good things to make that happen. Delicious food, beautiful scenery, good art, and loving friends and family. He’s given us so many things that don’t have a ‘practical’ purpose in His plan simply because He wants us to be happy.”
His favorite scripture, found in Moroni 10:3, reflects this perspective:
“That ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men.”
His hope is that students will strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ by learning to see Him in the good things around them. Outside of his work in writing and editing, Elder Johnson describes himself as a “film buff.” He enjoys watching a wide range of movies and studying the craft behind them, and he hopes to one day write a film that makes it to theaters. In three words, he describes himself as boisterous, insightful, and emotional—in the best ways.
When asked about his favorite outdoor activity, he shared:
“Basking in the early morning light. I’ve got some old wizard vibes in me.”
One quote he lives by comes from Dr. Strange:
“Arrogance and fear still keep you from learning the simplest and most significant lesson of all… it’s not about you.”
In many ways, the “spark” of excitement Elder Johnson hopes students will discover reflects God’s gift of joy in every aspect of life. His journey to our team has been guided by that same purpose. Through his work and perspective, Elder Johnson has become a meaningful part of our school community, and we are grateful for the influence he has on both curriculum and our team.
I am a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints with a focus on Christ‑centered education and its ability to strengthen lives worldwide. I’m a passionate writer who is a strong advocate for mental health and personal growth.
