Our Coach

Jalishia Sanders is the former cheer coach for Tioga Middle School’s 2023–2024 season, where she made a significant impact in her first year of coaching. With over 10 years of experience in dance and a passion for youth development, Jalishia brings both professionalism and heart to the mat. She is a USA Cheer–certified coach, as well as certified in CPR and first aid.

Outside of coaching, Jalishia serves as a high school English teacher and believes strongly in supporting the whole child—academically, emotionally, and socially. Recognizing the limitations of traditional school cheer programs, she founded Starlights Cheer to create a more accessible and enriching competitive cheer experience for all athletes.

Jalishia is deeply committed to building a team environment where every athlete feels safe, confident, and valued. Mental health and emotional well-being are core to her coaching philosophy. While winning is always exciting, she finds the greatest reward in witnessing her athletes grow—both as cheerleaders and as individuals.