His phone ringing, Isaiah Johnson fidgets behind his tidy desk as he quickly responds to an e-mail.

A framed poster of Barack Obama with his campaign mantra, “Yes We Can,” graces his office wall, as do several of Johnson’s academic achievements.

A collage of African-American athletes, notably from the NBA, decorates another wall. A small, circular and inviting table for visitors occupies one corner of the small room.

The door is usually open.

Before Johnson can complete his thoughts on the keyboard, a secretary interrupts his mid-morning routine to notify him that a problem student needs his intervention.

Johnson unlimbers his tall frame, straightens his tie and heads out the door.

“The job,” he said with an infectious smile, “is very demanding … you have to be focused on three, four things at one time.”

Johnson is learning how to juggle tasks these days as an energetic, first-year principal at Cascade Middle School.

A pioneer throughout most of his life, Johnson become the first and only African-American principal in the Auburn School District last fall.

It is a role he assumes with great pride, especially now as the nation pays tribute to the late civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday Monday, and welcomes its first black president with a historic ceremony Tuesday.

“This year the holiday is very significant to me because of the connection with Obama’s inauguration,” Johnson said. “One of my heroes is Martin Luther King. His dream was really a vision for our country. And with Obama becoming the country’s first African-American president, we get to see (King’s) dream come to fruition.

“I see myself as an African-American being in a leadership role, so it’s exciting to see a man as president that’s my race.”

Race and responsibility continue to impact the 37-year-old Johnson daily. There is pressure to perform, but so far the young administrator is making a difference.

It is by no means an easy assignment.

Johnson fulfills a whirlwind tour of duty on a given day. There is so much to do, completing nonstop chores with so many personalities tugging at his sleeve, so many demanding his undivided attention.

“The biggest challenge?” he was asked. “It’s learning how to stay on top of everything. That’s the biggest learning curve.

“With the principal’s role, everything is on your shoulders,” he added. “It’s hectic. You’re dealing with so many responsibilities. But I want to be there, responding to parents, staff and students.”

For Johnson, it is a daunting job, but one he was destined to do. His work days begin early and end late. His work week often stretches beyond 50 hours.

Johnson originally wanted to get into business, perhaps become an accountant. But his colleagues told him he had the right tools, the good nature, to be something different, somebody more influential.

He could shape and inspire the lives of youngsters, he was told. He could be a thoughtful leader, someone who practices what he preaches – showing dignity, respect and hard work.

“I am enjoying this role,” said Johnson, who also manages the good life at home with his wife, Leta, and three children, Elijah, 11, Azaria 6; and Neviah, 3. They live on Lea Hill.

“I have to say the staff here is dedicated. I couldn’t ask for a better staff,” Johnson continued. “I like the kids. I believe in what I’m doing and what the staff is doing as we take our school to the next level.”

Johnson previously worked as assistant vice principal at Mt. Baker Middle School for four years before his promotion. He began his teaching career at Kent Junior High in 1996 and in 2001 earned his certificate in administration from the University of Washington. From 2001 to 2004, he was the assistant principal at Denny Middle School in the Seattle School District.

Johnson has served honorably on several committees, and in 2006 the Association of Washington Middle Level Principals named him South King County Regional Assistant Principal of the year.

His travels through public education have led him to a north Auburn middle school with an ethnically-mixed student body of 720 students and its share of everyday challenges.

In just a few short months at Cascade, the Oak Harbor native and former PLU basketball player has had a tremendous impact.

“It’s a big job, and he’s made such a difference,” said David Trout, who teaches math to sixth-graders. “It’s been a world of difference. He has brought enthusiasm, vision, organization and many wonderful things.

“He’s the consummate, professional educator.”

Tad Heinen, assistant principal, noticed a change in the tone and direction at the school.

“He brought a renewed energy,” Heinen said. “He really cares about kids, parents and the community. He’s a good fit.”

One of the things Johnson has done is tackling behavioral problems. He is firm but fair, easy-going but structured in his approach with others.

“Actually, he’s pretty cool,” said seventh-grader Maggie Elston. “He’s so much fun to have around. He’s a good man.”

Added student Shania Currie: “He brought a better attitude and discipline. We’re a better school because he came here.”

Johnson has a vision for excellence at the school. It’s a plan for others to share and follow.

In race, education and other issues, progress comes with perspective and time.

“By no means have we arrived as a nation,” Johnson said. “There’s so much work to be done.”