Hello future music families! I am so excited to partner with you and provide dynamic, engaging and enriching musical experiences! 

My name is Hannah Johnston👋 I have been teaching elementary music for nearly 20 years and making music since I could speak. Though not born in the Last Frontier, that drive up the Alcan Highway at 2 weeks of age brought me to my forever home. I LOVE Alaska, it's landscape and it's incredible people. I am so blessed to have grown up in this beautiful state and beyond excited to continue serving my incredible community through music! 

Education

I am a graduate of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. In May of 2009 I received a Bachelor's of Music in K-12 Music Education and a Bachelor's of Music in Trumpet Performance. I completed my graduate studies at UAF in May of 2011, graduating with a Masters of Arts in Trumpet Performance.

Professional

I hold a Professional Teaching Certificate in the State of Alaska with an endorsement in K-12 Music.
Upon completion of my graduate degree, I immediately started teaching in the Anchorage School District. I served as an music educator in the Anchorage School District for 15 years. In that time I served as music educator at both Homestead Elementary (2017-2026) and Kasuun Elementary (2011-2017). Prior to ASD I also taught Kindergarten music at Open Arms Child Development Center in Fairbanks, Alaska(2007-2011). 

In addition to my role as elementary music educator I also served as the Elementary Music Curriculum Expert for the Anchorage School District. In this role I developed curriculum, mentored and supported Fine Arts staff and developed, designed and delivered professional development. I am so grateful for this rewarding experience with ASD students and families. As a former (and returning) Homeschool parent and student, I am thrilled to start this new journey with Homeschool families and the community!

I have served in a number of professional Fine Arts organizations and associations. I most recently served as President of the Alaska Music Educators Association 2022-2024. I have served on the Alaska Arts Education Consortium board as the South Central representative for 12 years. In addition to my role as an educator, I have also played trumpet with Anchorage Symphony Orchestra for 14 years. I have been playing trumpet in various ensembles and in a number of capacities for 30 years. I have had the privilege of serving as trumpet player for the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra, Arctic Chamber Orchestra, Borealis Brass, Anchorage Concert Chorus, Arctic Chamber Singers and more. Being a small part of Alaska's professional music community is a blessing.

Awards

2025-2026
Alaska Music Educators
Music Advocate of the Year Award

2020-2021
Chugiak Eagle River Chamber of Commerce
Excellence in Education Award
Recognizes educators for their outstanding educational commitment to the Chugiak-Eagle River community

2019-2020
Delta Kappa Gamma
Golden Apple Award
Given to exemplary teachers who have made a positive contribution to the field of education.

2018-2019
BP Teachers of Excellence
Nominee

2017-2018
BP Teachers of Excellence
Nominee

2012-2013
Anchorage Education Association
Outstanding Educator Award