From Emmy-Nominated Producer to Top Educator: Jena Kleindl Named Illinois' 2025 Outstanding Early Career Teacher

In just a few years after transitioning from a successful career in television news, the University of Phoenix alumna is being recognized for her innovative curriculum design and profound dedication to student success at Freeport High School.

University of Phoenix is celebrating one of its own, College of Education alumna Jena Kleindl, who has been named the 2025 Outstanding Early Career Educator by the Illinois State Board of Education. The prestigious recognition is part of the state’s annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year program, which honors excellence in education.

Kleindl, a former Emmy-nominated television news producer, made a career change to education in 2021. In a remarkably short time, she has made a significant impact as an English and Journalism teacher at Freeport High School, where she also serves as an advisor for the National Honor Society and coaches the school's speech team.

A Rapid and Impactful Transition

Since entering the classroom, Kleindl has distinguished herself as an innovative leader within her school community. Drawing on her extensive background in media, she played a key role in launching a media production academy pathway. This unique program provides students with the opportunity to earn valuable industry certifications and college credit, equipping them with vital communication skills applicable across a wide range of future careers.

Her commitment to student success is further demonstrated by her work in redesigning the 9–12 English curriculum to close opportunity gaps and improve proficiency. Additionally, her efforts as part of the school’s multi-tier system of supports team have directly contributed to raising graduation rates.

A Platform to Empower Students and Teachers

For Kleindl, the award is both a profound honor and an unexpected platform to advocate for her students and fellow educators.

“Like many of my fellow honorees, I never imagined receiving state-level recognition for my work as an educator,” said Kleindl. “Teaching is often a thankless profession, where some of the most extraordinary educators go unnoticed. That’s why being named the 2025 Outstanding Early Career Educator of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education was such a profound honor.”

She continued, “This recognition has given me a platform I never expected—one that I hope to use to support early career and pre-service teachers as they learn to find balance in the profession. Most importantly, I want to continue empowering students to discover and share their own voices and stories.”

Finding the Right Path into Education

Kleindl credits her graduate certificate program at University of Phoenix with providing the flexibility and strong foundation she needed to turn her passion for education into a successful new career.

“University of Phoenix provided the professional training and strong foundation I needed to not only succeed, but to thrive,” she said. “With the knowledge and confidence I gained, I was able to reimagine my school’s 9–12 English curriculum to help close the opportunity gap and launch a student journalism program that equips the next generation of communicators and leaders. The University of Phoenix gave me the tools, but more importantly, the belief that I could transform my passion into impact.”

This sentiment was echoed by the university’s leadership.

“Jena Kleindl’s story is one we’re incredibly proud to share,” said Dr. Pamela Roggeman, dean of the College of Education at University of Phoenix. “She brings real-world experience into the classroom and uses it to create meaningful opportunities for her students. Her recognition by the Illinois State Board of Education speaks to the kind of impact educators can have when they’re well-prepared, passionate and deeply committed. We’re honored to have supported her path into teaching.”

The University of Phoenix College of Education aims to address the national teacher shortage by providing flexible online programs and resources designed to prepare career changers and adult learners for success in today's classrooms.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.