(Original version posted May 19. Updated with additional information about length of Johnson’s term.)

The Bellevue School Board at its May 18 meeting selected Betsy Johnson to fill the seat vacated by long-time board member Judy Bushnell.

Johnson is a former Microsoft marketing executive who now serves as president of the Bellevue Schools Foundation and as a member of the Medina Elementary PTSA board of directors.

“I’ve had a number of leadership roles in the district, and this seemed like the logical next step,” she said. “There was some strong competition for the job, so I’m surprised and happy.”

The board reviewed five applicants for its open position.

Johnson said in her application that the district needs to work on challenging kids more, helping the lowest-performing students meet standards, and collaborating with employee unions to meet district goals.

“I think there will be some hard choices the board will have to make given the state’s budget situation going forward, but I think the district has some strong leadership,” Johnson told The Reporter. “I’m confident about our direction, and I trust that we’ll face these challenges and come out in a stronger position.”

Johnson is due to finish Bushnell’s term, which expires after the November 2011 election. Her work with the board begins June 1.

Johnson’s run as president of the Bellevue Schools Foundation ends June 30. She said she may remain with the organization as a trustee.