Ms. Yanitzie Oquendo, Principal

Growing up as a military child, Yanitzie Oquendo lived in Europe and in various cities across the United States; this experience helped her appreciate the beauty of different cultures within and outside of the United States. Ultimately, her experiences with educators in cities across the country and those in DOD schools overseas lead her to seek a career as an educator. Having experienced the positive life-long impact that compassionate, caring educators had on her life, has formed many of her educational beliefs. She is passionate about educators’ roles in helping all students find success and uncovering their gifts through creating a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, are cared for, and find success because of the positive relationship they have with their teachers.

During her seventeen-year tenure in Killeen ISD, she has served as an instructional assistant, a teacher for scholars in first through fourth grade, Curriculum Instruction Specialist and most recently, as Assistant Principal. Early in her career, she received recognition as “Best First Year Teacher” on her campus and later as “TAGT’s Region 12 Rising Star Teacher”. She earned a Master of Education from Concordia University Texas, and she continues to find opportunities for learning each day. Most recently, her passion for Restorative Discipline Practices in schools led her to participate in 56 hours of training with Dr. Lang at TEA, where she was able to assist in training other teachers and parents on restorative discipline practices in the home and school.

As Principal, she is committed to the success of each student and staff member. By fostering relationships with families and community members, she hopes to continue the traditions of the campus and lead the campus toward continued success.