Mrs. Killian adds a new fun spark to the Spartan community. photo by Sonja Calhoun
Passionate educator and administrator is excited to join the Spartan community.
Michelle Killian’s passion for being an educator started as a little girl when she realized she loved learning and helping others. Although Killian has only been at TJ for a few months, she has been an educator for almost 20 years. Before becoming an assistant principal, Killian taught art in Ohio. She loved being a teacher, but she realized she wanted to make a bigger impact in the school system, leading her to become an administrator What excites her the most about this role is not only that she can continue to be involved with students’ academics, but that she can also contribute to a strong, caring, and welcoming environment for the students and staff.
In her first few months at TJ, Killian has found herself inspired by the school spirit. Her first impression of the school was the warmth and kindness of the people who make up the community. “Everyone has been so welcoming,” she shared, with a smile on her face, “It makes me grateful to be a part of the TJ family.” Killian’s immediate sense of belonging affirmed her decision about stepping into her role at the school.
When asked about her goals for the school year, Killian stated that her top priority is to help strengthen the school’s sense of community while supporting student learning. She believes that an environment where students feel connected, safe, and supported, will enable students to succeed in their studies and develop as individuals. “I want to help build the community stronger than what it already is,” she stated. “Supporting learning is always important, but so is making sure students know that there are adults here they can trust.” For Killian, leadership cannot involve being distant or out of reach; it requires showing up, being present in the hallways, and letting students know she’s there for them.
Supporting students academically and emotionally is at the heart of her approach. She sees her role not only as a leader, but as a steady presence for students. “Be there, be present, be a trusted person in the building,” Killian stated. She understands that students deserve to feel seen and heard, not just evaluated or tested. That’s why she emphasizes balance, helping students succeed academically while also giving them encouragement when life outside of the classroom feels overwhelming.
Another priority of our new assistant principal is ensuring that student voices play a role in shaping the future of TJ. She is committed to certifying that decision making is not held behind closed doors and is informed by student input. “I want to be involved with groups, and I always want to hear from students,” she explained. “Their voices are so important in helping strengthen the community.” Although she admits she still is learning her way through the school, Killian sees that process as an opportunity. By listening closely to students, staff, and parents, she hopes to grow alongside the TJ community.
Her personal message to students is simple but holds a lot of weight and value: “Keep being awesome, doing the things you do, being kind, and showing up. You are what makes this place amazing.” For her, the heart of the school lies in its students and she reminds them that they are the foundation of what makes TJ an extraordinary place to learn and grow.
Outside of school, Killian is just as active and passionate. She loves being outdoors, whether it’s biking, hiking, or simply spending time in nature. She also has a creative side that might be surprising. Killian is a jeweler and at one time ran her own jewelry business. That balance of professional leadership, outdoor adventure, and artistic expression gives her a well rounded perspective that she brings into her work.
Above all, Killian believes her job is about more than policies or schedules, it is about investing in people. She wants to ensure that every student who walks into the school feels supported, every teacher knows their work is valued, and every family trusts that their children are in good hands while learning. Her love for education, her dedication to the community, and her genuine enthusiasm for the future all make Killian the perfect person to help the TJ community grow as a place where students and faculty can thrive.
