Assistant Principal
Corey Ephraim is an educational leader, community advocate, professional photographer, and media personality from Waco, Texas. A proud graduate of Waco High School (Class of 1997), he currently serves as Assistant Principal and Campus Behavior Coordinator at Parkdale Elementary School in Waco ISD—the very school where his educational journey began. Affectionately known as "Mr. E.," he is recognized for building positive school cultures, developing teachers, and creating meaningful relationships with students and families.
Corey earned a Bachelor of Science from Baylor University after beginning his collegiate football career as an inside linebacker at East Central University. He later earned a Master of Education from Tarleton State University and has continued advanced studies in educational leadership.
Before becoming a school administrator, Corey spent years coaching and mentoring student-athletes. He served as Special Teams Coordinator and Varsity Linebackers Coach at Waco High School and also coached basketball and track. His passion for leadership extends beyond athletics into every aspect of student development.
Outside of education, Corey is deeply committed to serving the Waco community. He serves as Chapter President of the Gamma Omicron Sigma Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., leading initiatives focused on mentorship, scholarship, service, and civic engagement. He also helps organize the annual Waco Martin Luther King Jr. Peace March in partnership with fellow Divine Nine organizations and community leaders.
Corey's professional experience also includes leadership roles in corporate wireless sales with major telecommunications companies and service with the State of Texas before transitioning into education.
Many in Central Texas also know Corey as "Mr. Classic," a longtime radio personality on Waco's historic Black-owned radio stations, including 94.5, 104.9, and 107.3 The Beat. He co-hosted the highly rated Tight at Nite radio show before launching Throwback with Mr. Classic. He also co-owned the popular Waco entertainment venue, Broken Promise.
As the owner of Corey Ephraim Photography (formerly Classic Photography), Corey has spent more than a decade capturing sports, community events, portraits, and red-carpet experiences. His portfolio includes credentialed photography for Baylor Athletics, the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston Texans, and numerous national entertainment events, with portraits of more than 200 public figures and celebrities.
Whether leading a school, mentoring young people, serving his fraternity, photographing unforgettable moments, or speaking at community events, Corey remains committed to one mission: inspiring others through leadership, service, and excellence.
Mr. Ephraim is married to Mrs. Nikitha Hartfield-Ephraim, a dedicated Waco ISD educator with over twenty-one years of service. Together, they are the proud parents of three children: Aiyana (24), Cameron (17), and Corrae (14). In both his personal and professional life, Mr. Ephraim is passionate about helping students grow into confident, lifelong learners—and, when possible, great athletes too

Mr. Corey Ephraim, M.Ed.
Assistant Principal / Campus Behavior Coordinator
Parkdale Elementary
Corey.Ephraim@wacoisd.org
(254) 772-2170 Ext. 1021
