Tracy Johnston

Tracy recently joined Grove as Director of Programs and Instruction, bringing deep expertise in curriculum development, teacher leadership, and family engagement. Her connection to Grove goes back years—she has been a genuine partner with our community in her previous roles, and we’re thrilled to have her leading these critical areas of our work. Throughout her career, Tracy has continuously built programs that empower teachers, challenge students, and nurture families. As an advocate for those facing difficult moments in life, she prides herself on being a partner who shows up to see things through, actively holding space with students, staff, and families as they find their way forward toward improved performance and experiences in the classroom, on the campus, and ultimately, in life.

Tracy has had an exciting career in education and nonprofit organizations, teaching Special Education in both public and private settings and serving as a school administrator and District Special Education Director. She is well-versed in the IEP/PPT process and is particularly passionate about effective teacher induction and training programs and parent/family workshops. She earned her BS from the University of Connecticut in Human Development and Family Relations and holds Certifications and Master’s degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and Sacred Heart University.

Beyond her work in education, Tracy is an active member of the Hartford Healthcare Cancer Institute, where she co-chairs the statewide HHCI Patient Family Advisory Council. She also founded Tighed Together, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families during times of profound challenge. This work reflects her deep belief that family systems deserve comprehensive and restorative care—a philosophy that informs everything she does.

Tracy is happily a creative soul, painting, building, designing, and finding treasures where others may see ruin. A Connecticut native new to the shoreline, she lives in Branford with two children in college. You might find her drawing by the beach or kayaking with her remarkable dog, Slider. She is a Kripalu Certified Yoga Instructor and completed the Hartford Marathon in 2023.