KADIE ALLEN
Coordinator of Workforce Training and Prison Education Programs, Texarkana College

“Every student has a pathway to learning.”

Though she now works with adult students, Kadie Allen began her career in early childhood education. In particular, her experience as a special education teacher helped her realize her passion for nontraditional or atypical learners.

“Before becoming a special education teacher, I had the opportunity to substitute in a special education classroom, and that experience was transformative for me,” she said. “I quickly fell in love with the students and the unique ways they learned and engaged with the material. That experience showed me that every student has a pathway to learning—it just may look different for each individual. It deepened my commitment to education and reinforced my belief in meeting learners where they are, a perspective that continues to influence how I approach my work today.”

Kadie began her work at Texarkana College in 2024. As the coordinator of both the workforce training program as well as the prison education program (PEP), she is responsible for ensuring that the college’s offerings serve students and regional workforce needs. The workforce training program encompasses courses in appliance and automotive technology, aviation, barbering and cosmetology, culinary arts, electrical technology, office careers, plumbing, welding, and more. PEP, meanwhile, provides incarcerated students at the Barry B. Telford Unit the opportunity to earn a one-year certification in welding. Kadie said that coordinating these diverse offerings requires adaptability, a solutions-focused mindset, and a deep understanding of how these programs can serve as powerful catalysts in students’ lives.

Kadie and Matthew have two children, Logan (14) and Ema (19, pictured with boyfriend, Ty). submitted photo

“I do what I do because I’ve seen how access to the right training at the right time can completely change a person’s future,” she said. “Career and technical education provides opportunity, confidence, and direction for students who are ready to improve their lives. I’m passionate about creating pathways that align education with real-world careers. I work closely with local employers and workforce partners to ensure our programs align with regional employment needs. This helps students gain relevant, in-demand skills while supporting the economic growth of the Texarkana area.”

Kadie and her husband, Matthew, have two children: Ema (19) and Logan (14). Because Logan is a budding actor, Kadie spends much of her free time on the local youth theatre scene: she ushers for TexRep productions, helps backstage at Silvermoon Children’s Theatre, and serves as the middle school vice president for the Pleasant Grove Theatre Booster Club. Kadie herself is a musical theatre enthusiast and “enjoys watching [musicals] whenever I have the chance,” she said.

In her free time, Kadie prioritizes reading, needlepointing, and spending time with her family—not only her husband and children but also her extended family. One family member in particular has made a significant mark on Kadie’s life.

“My stepmom, [2019 Tribute to Women honoree] Rhonda King, has been incredibly influential in my life, both personally and professionally,” she said. “Watching her lead in our community taught me early on what it means to show up consistently, serve others with purpose, and lead with integrity. She doesn’t seek recognition, but she naturally earns respect because she follows through, builds relationships, and genuinely cares about the people around her. From her, I learned the importance of accountability, compassion, and using your voice to advocate for positive change. Her example continues to motivate me to lead with empathy and to look for ways to make a meaningful difference wherever I am.”

FSLM ASKED KADIE:

What is something most people don’t know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is how much I love reading. It’s a passion I developed as an adult and one that has grown into a true love of books. I also enjoy collecting books, and my personal library reflects my appreciation for stories, learning, and quiet moments.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, basketball was a big part of my life, and I used to tell my dad that I wanted to be both a basketball player and a teacher.

What is your favorite community hangout?
I love getting coffee at The Stained Page and watching theatre productions through Silvermoon Children’s Theatre and TexRep.

How Holli Easley Sees Kadie:

“Kadie Allen is an extraordinary woman whose life reflects strength, grace, and unwavering faith. As a woman of God, she carries herself with humility and compassion, offering encouragement and wisdom to everyone around her. She is a devoted wife and a loving mother, balancing her family life with a deep commitment to serving others. As a friend, Kadie is the person you can count on—steady, supportive, prayerful, and genuinely invested in the well‑being of those she cares about. Her character shines even more brightly in the workplace. Since joining Texarkana College in the summer of 2024, Kadie has made an undeniable impact on both her colleagues and the students she serves. Her passion for student success, coupled with her strong belief in the mission of Texarkana College, quickly propelled her from a specialist role to a coordinator position. This growth wasn’t just the result of hard work; it was a reflection of her natural leadership, her gift for connecting with people, and her ability to inspire others through her example. Kadie embodies integrity, service, and purpose in everything she does. She is the kind of woman who lifts others up, creates positive change, and brings light to every space she walks into. I am grateful to call her a friend and honored to recognize her as a woman whose influence has shaped my life and our community for the better.”

Feature Stories

Tribute to Women: Kadie Allen