Kijafa Tilford

Assistant Principal, Educator, and Consultant in Plano Texas

Kijafa Tilford

Assistant Principal, Educator, and Consultant in Plano Texas

Growing up in Muskogee, Oklahoma, I developed a lifelong passion for teaching, learning, oratorical speaking, and exploring how we learn as humans.

As the first college graduate in my immediate family, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Education from Langston University, an HBCU in Langston, Oklahoma. I went on to receive my Master of Education Administration from Concordia University in Austin in 2011.

Over the past 20 years, I have served in a variety of educational roles—from teaching primary grades to coaching and developing teachers. I had the privilege of working as a Campus Reading Specialist (Certified Literacy Coach), where I trained teachers in reading instruction and supported literacy development for students in Pre-K through 5th grade.

Now entering my 10th year as an Assistant Principal, I find my greatest joy in viewing the school system from a broader lens and witnessing the growth we achieve each year at Christie Elementary.

Outside of work, I cherish time with my daughter, granddaughter, and sweet pup. I enjoy gathering with family and friends, dining out, shopping, reading, listening to live music, and learning new line dances.

I believe we have a responsibility to teach the whole child, and I remain committed to shaping the future through education.Now…..GOBe AMAZING!

Quote: Maya Angelou

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." "It's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself: to forgive.