Atlas Leadership
Dr. Roza Johnson
Founder
I’m Dr. Johnson, a multilingual learner who speaks four languages and has spent my entire life emerged in multiple languages and cultures. For over a decade, I was a bilingual teacher, coordinator, and director of multilingual programs. Throughout my career, I have supported thousands of students across more than 80 languages in school districts throughout Illinois.
In addition to my work in Illinois schools, I have presented for many years at national bilingual education conferences and at colleges, sharing best practices in bilingual education, culturally responsive instruction, and language development with educators from across the country. Through this work, my impact has reached classrooms nationwide by supporting teachers who serve multilingual students in diverse communities.
My work centers on creating inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments that honor students’ languages and identities while aligning bilingual language standards with state standards.
I have partnered with teachers and coordinators to design curriculum that empowers students academically and personally.
I studied Spanish and Education as an undergraduate, earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, a Master’s in Administration, completed a Doctorate in Education, and obtained my Principal License. This academic and leadership preparation informs my approach to supporting students, educators, and school communities.
Atlas Books is an extension of my lifelong commitment to helping students see themselves in what they learn, feel proud of their roots, and confidently explore the world.
Language creates access.
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Dr. Johnson surprised her former students with a visit to their bilingual classroom.
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Dr. Johnson being interviewed by students on their podcast.
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Teachers and district leaders attending Dr. Johnson’s presentation at a statewide conference.
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Dr. Johnson presenting to students in the Education master’s program.
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Teachers attending Dr. Johnson’s presentation at a statewide conference.
Atlas Books curates multilingual books for schools, libraries, and bookstores, helping students explore the world through authentic stories.
The collection reflects where students come from while opening windows to cultures beyond their own. When learners see their languages, families, and traditions represented in the stories they read, they develop a sense of belonging, pride, and identity. Reading stories from around the world builds curiosity, empathy, and global understanding.
Atlas Books focuses on authentic books from students’ home countries, not just English-translated texts. These books preserve original language, cultural context, and storytelling traditions, offering meaningful connections to heritage and genuine insight into the world.
Each book selected represents a place, a voice, and a lived experience, inviting students to explore who they are and how they connect to the world around them.
Why Schools and Libraries Trust Atlas Books
Schools trust Atlas Books because our work is grounded in educational expertise, authentic storytelling, and real classroom experience.
Educator-founded and led
Atlas Books was created by an experienced multilingual educator and educational leader with extensive classroom, district, and nationally informed experience.
Rooted in authenticity
Collections prioritize original language books from students’ home countries, honoring cultural context and lived experience.
Designed for real classrooms
Every title is selected with instructional purpose, language development, and student engagement in mind.
Aligned with bilingual education standards
The approach supports bilingual and state standards while respecting teacher autonomy and professional judgment.
Nationally informed practice
The work is shaped by years of research, national conference presentations and collaboration with educators across the country.
Equity-centered, not trend-driven
The mission is grounded in access, dignity, and representation rather than performative diversity.