KENIA TIJERINA
Mcallen
Summary
Experienced school leader with a proven track record in managing large-scale testing programs and overseeing Special Education services at a high school of over 1,900 students. Skilled in fostering inclusive learning environments, driving instructional improvement through data-informed practices, and supporting diverse student populations. Adept at building collaborative staff teams, ensuring compliance, and leading campus-wide initiatives that enhance academic achievement and student well-being. Committed to excellence in educational leadership and continuous school improvement.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Principal
La Joya ISD
12.2024 - Current
- Led all STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) and NWEA MAP testing for a campus of over 1,900 students, including scheduling, staff training, test security, and day-of coordination.
- Supervised and trained the Special Education department, ensuring compliance with IDEA, implementation of IEPs, and alignment of accommodations across content areas.
- Managed student discipline using restorative practices and progressive interventions to maintain a safe, respectful learning environment.
- Conducted frequent classroom walk-throughs and formal observations, providing instructional coaching and actionable feedback to improve teaching practices.
- Facilitated and participated in ARD, LPAC, and RtI meetings to ensure academic and behavioral supports were in place and documented correctly.
- Oversaw daily campus operations including duty assignments, emergency drills, and classroom coverage to ensure school safety and efficiency.
- Maintained strong communication with families and collaborated with district personnel to support student success.
- Supported a positive school culture by addressing student behavior concerns promptly and effectively.
Summer School, Administrator
Sharyland Pioneer High School
06.2024
- Ensured the security of teachers and students by implementing and monitoring safety protocols and procedures.
- Developed and managed the master schedule for summer school, including class assignments, room allocations, and daily schedules.
- Organized and provided professional development and training sessions for summer school teachers, offering ongoing support and guidance throughout the summer session.
- Oversaw the student enrollment process, maintained accurate attendance records, and addressed any attendance issues.
- Ensured the summer school curriculum aligned with district standards and supported student learning goals.
- Provided instructional support to teachers as needed.
- Maintained open lines of communication with parents and guardians regarding student progress, school policies, and any concerns.
- Managed and allocated resources, including materials, equipment, and budget, to ensure efficient operation of the summer school program. Implemented and enforced behavior management policies to maintain a positive and productive learning environment.
- Monitored and evaluated the effectiveness of the summer school program. Prepared and presented reports on program outcomes and areas for improvement.
- Worked closely with the district administration and other school leaders to ensure alignment with district goals and policies.
Department Chair, Special Education
Pioneer High School
08.2022 - 11.2024
- Lead the Special Education Department, overseeing a team of educators and support staff in Mission, TX.
- Develop departmental policies, procedures, and initiatives to ensure the effective delivery of special education services.
- Collaborate with school administration, teachers, and parents to support the individual needs of students with disabilities.
- Conduct departmental meetings, provide professional development opportunities, and facilitate ongoing training for department members.
- Coordinate with general education teachers to implement inclusive practices and accommodations for students with disabilities.
- Implement data-driven strategies to monitor student progress, evaluate program effectiveness, and make data-informed decisions.
- Foster a positive and inclusive school culture that promotes the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students.
High School Inclusion Teacher
Sharyland Pioneer High School
08.2021 - 11.2024
- Developed, implemented, and evaluated IEPs for students with disabilities in a general education setting.
- Scheduled and conducted ARD meetings.
- Facilitated successful integration of students into the general education learning environment.
- Increased student comprehension of school material and tracked progression of goals for each student to ensure consistent progress.
Elementary/Middle School Inclusion Teacher
Horizon Montessori Public Schools
08.2020 - 06.2021
- Sole Special education teacher for Elementary and Middle school. Ensured compliance with state and federal laws regarding the rights of special education students.
- Facilitated the transition of special education students between school years, McAllen, TX. Developed and maintained a supportive classroom environment, helping build good relationships and open communications with students and families.
- Assessed student needs and implemented evidence-based instructional and behavioral strategies for a diverse student population. Successfully managed a team of 5 paraprofessionals to achieve 100% of services for all students on caseload (28 students).
Administrative Coordinator
Diversified Technology Connections
04.2010 - 12.2019
- Managed day-to-day office operations, overseeing 20 employees to ensure proper workflow.
- Coordinated the preparation of reports and documents, addressed inquiries, and resolved administrative problems quickly and accurately.
- Responsible for hiring and training all employees and overseeing the daily tasks of this position, assigned work, and acted as a primary liaison between upper-level management and staff.
- Implemented and maintained filing systems and records in order to ensure accuracy and completeness of data.
- Optimized workflow processes to ensure maximum efficiency, accuracy, and compliance with company standards.
Education
Masters - Educational Leadership
University of Texas
Edinburg, TX12.2023
Bachelors - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Texas
Edinburg, TX05.2020
Associates - Interdisciplinary Studies
South Texas College
McAllen, TX01.2018
Skills
- Special Education Program Management
- Data Analysis and Reporting
- Curriculum Development and Adaptation
- Behavior Management Strategies
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Knowledge of Special Education Laws and Regulation
- Critical Thinking
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Organization and Time Management
- Advocacy for Students with Special Needs
Certification
- Core subjects EC-6
- Principal Certification (Pending)
- Special Education EC-1
LANGUAGES
English - Advanced
Spanish - Advanced
Timeline
Assistant Principal
La Joya ISD
12.2024 - Current
Summer School, Administrator
Sharyland Pioneer High School
06.2024
Department Chair, Special Education
Pioneer High School
08.2022 - 11.2024
High School Inclusion Teacher
Sharyland Pioneer High School
08.2021 - 11.2024
Elementary/Middle School Inclusion Teacher
Horizon Montessori Public Schools
08.2020 - 06.2021
Administrative Coordinator
Diversified Technology Connections
04.2010 - 12.2019
Bachelors - Interdisciplinary Studies
University of Texas
Associates - Interdisciplinary Studies
South Texas College
Masters - Educational Leadership
University of Texas
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