Cleveland (CJ) and Barbara Johnson Legacy Scholarship

Cleveland (CJ) and Barbara Johnson met in the ninth grade at Port Arthur Lincoln High School in Texas. From that day forward, they shared a life together for fifty-five years. CJ dutifully served his country for twenty years in the United States Air Force, as he and Barbara raised three children, traveled the world, and served their community at every stop along the way.

Throughout their lives together, education was important to both CJ and Barbara. They instilled these values into their children, who all attended and graduated from college. Further, their emphasis on education has also been instilled in their grandchildren, all four of whom are college graduates or current college students on track to graduate.

After CJ’s retirement from his career in the military and from Frito-Lay, Inc., community leaders recognized his passion for kids and education and encouraged him to run for the Moreno Valley School Board. Twelve years later, CJ and his supportive wife Barbara, until her passing, helped to make a positive difference in the lives of countless students throughout the district. He always had kind words and an ear to listen. CJ especially had a desire to help minority students who often are held back from achieving their full academic potential due to the oppressions they face.

This scholarship aims to further CJ and Barbara Johnson’s legacy of educational support by uplifting the next generation of bright students.

Any underrepresented minority high school senior in the Moreno Valley School District in California may apply for this scholarship opportunity. You must be a student at one of the following schools: Moreno Valley High School, Canyon Springs High School, Valley View High School, Vista Del Lago High School, March Mountain High School.

To apply, tell us about yourself, how you plan to make a difference, and what your passion is.