By Dr. Jennifer Abeyta-Cifuentes
I never imagined myself in education, despite being told by teachers that I had a talent for it. But I am so happy that I chose this rewarding path that allows me to work with students who come from the same circumstances that I did and help them forge their own journeys.
As a first-generation college student from Adams 14 in Commerce City, after graduating high school, I earned a full-ride scholarship to Colorado College and was planning to serve my community through law and government. Yet I was always drawn to helping others through teaching and service.
After college, a call from a principal in Big Sandy 100J opened the door to teaching that I thankfully never closed. After teaching Spanish for four years in Big Sandy, I moved to Sierra High School in Harrison School District 2, where I taught for three years and discovered the joy of watching my students grow.
I knew the power of education and how it could change lives. Now, I wanted to expand my influence and help support teachers and continue working on shaping the system.
I pursued a master’s degree and administrator certificate from the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs. With the support of colleagues and my husband, I finished my degree while working full time. Within a year, I became an assistant principal at Falcon High School in District 49. Later, I returned to Denver to focus on students from backgrounds like mine — full of potential but facing barriers.
After 13 years in administrator roles, I pursued a PhD in educational leadership and became a principal to further expand my support for students and staff.
I had long been drawn to Hinkley High School in Aurora Public Schools, passing it often on the way to my children’s gymnastics practice. I always felt I would work there one day. When the opportunity came four years ago, I jumped at the chance to serve a community that reminded me of my own childhood.
Working in education is a family calling. My mother was a school secretary for three decades in Adams 14. Both of my sisters work in higher education, and my husband is the principal of McGlone Academy in Denver Public Schools.
Becoming an educator was the best career move for me and my family. It has given us a life of love, opportunity, and growth, while also allowing us to make a positive impact on the world. If you are interested in this path, I encourage you to explore the Colorado Department of Education’s Educator Career Navigation page for resources and guidance to take your first steps.
Education changes lives — just as it changed mine. I am grateful to work with students who come from the same circumstances I did years ago. I see their challenges, but I also see their hope. That inspires me every day and reminds me why this work matters.
Dr. Jennifer Abeyta-Cifuentes is the principal at Hinkley High School in Aurora Public Schools.
