JENNIFER KLESZYNSKI
Hammond
Summary
Professional educator equipped to inspire and engage students in study of biology. Proven track record in delivering comprehensive and interactive lesson plans, fostering collaborative learning environment, and adapting to dynamic classroom needs. Skilled in curriculum development, laboratory management, and student assessment. Known for strong communication skills, patience, and passion for scientific education.
Since taking over Biology instruction at HAST, I have significantly improved student achievement on the Indiana ILEARN Biology assessment, increasing proficiency rates to 60% passing—well above the state average of 41%. During the 2024–2025 school year, HAST ranked third in the region in Biology performance, behind only School Town of Munster and Lake Central School Corporation. My focus on data-driven instruction, student engagement, and targeted academic support has contributed to measurable gains in student success.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
High School Biology Teacher
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology
Hammond, IN
06.2024 - Current
- Developed engaging biology curriculum aligned with state standards to enhance student understanding and interest.
- Implemented diverse teaching strategies to accommodate various learning styles and improve student performance.
- Facilitated laboratory experiments, ensuring safety protocols were followed while promoting hands-on learning experiences.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that integrate biology concepts across subjects.
- Evaluated student progress through assessments, providing targeted feedback to support academic growth and improvement.
- Served on curriculum development committees to refine biology program offerings based on emerging educational trends and research.
- Established a positive learning environment by maintaining clear expectations and providing consistent support for all students.
- Provided individualized support for struggling students through one-on-one tutoring sessions or small group instruction, leading to improved academic performance.
- Consistently updated curriculum to align with state standards and ensure relevance to current scientific knowledge.
- Continuously sought professional development opportunities, attending workshops and conferences focused on innovative teaching techniques for high school science education.
- Conducted after school Boot Camp to prepare students for the state Biology ILearn, and AP Biology Exam.
- Class Sponsor for the Class of 2028.
- Highly Effective Teacher
Middle School Science Teacher
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology
Hammond, IN
07.2019 - Current
- Developed engaging science curriculum aligned with state standards.
- Implemented hands-on experiments to enhance student understanding of scientific concepts.
- Utilized technology tools to facilitate interactive learning experiences in the classroom.
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on effective instructional strategies and classroom management.
- Assessed student progress through diverse evaluation methods, ensuring individualized support for learners.
- Established clear classroom expectations and maintained consistent discipline to promote an orderly and focused learning atmosphere.
- Created hands-on activities to demonstrate scientific principles and highlight various topics.
- Assessed student progress regularly through various evaluation methods, adjusting instructional strategies as needed to improve understanding.
- Communicated with parents and guardians regarding student progress and behavioral issues.
- Highly Effective Teacher
Paraprofessional Instructional Aide
Morton Elementary- School City of Hammond
Hammond, IN
10.2017 - Current
- Present subject matter to students under the direction and guidance of teachers, using lectures, discussions, or supervised role-playing methods.
- Discuss assigned duties with classroom teachers to coordinate instructional efforts.
- Distribute tests and homework assignments and collect them when they are completed.
- Grade homework and tests, and compute and record results, using answer sheets or electronic marking devices.
- Enforce administration policies and rules governing students.
- Tutor and assist children individually or in small groups to help them master assignments and to reinforce learning concepts presented by teachers.
- Prepare lesson materials, bulletin board displays, exhibits, equipment, and demonstrations.
- Participate in teacher-parent conferences regarding students' progress or problems.
Mother
Kleszynski-Powers Domain
Hammond, IN
08.2008 - Current
- Raising my family.
Aide
Chicago Public Schools
Chicago, IL
01.2013 - 09.2015
- Supervise students in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, school yards, and gymnasiums, or on field trips.
Administrative Assistant
Tetra Tech
Chicago, IL
05.2002 - 04.2005
- Operate office equipment such as fax machines, copiers, and phone systems, and use computers for spreadsheet, word processing, database management, and other applications.
- Answer telephones and give information to callers, take messages, or transfer calls to appropriate individuals.
- Set up and maintain paper and electronic filing systems for records, correspondence, and other material.
- Compose, type, and distribute meeting notes, routine correspondence, and reports.
- Manage projects or contribute to committee or team work.
Education
B.S. - Biology
Mount St. Clare College
Clinton, IA05-2001
Master of Arts - Secondary Education
Ball State University
Muncie, IN05-2024
Skills
- Microsoft Word
- Excel
- Power Point
- Google Classroom and Apps
- Scientific inquiry
- Collaborative learning
- Laboratory skills
- Evidence-based practices
- Lesson plan implementation
- Technology implementation
- Laboratory experiments and dissections
Certification
- Paraprofessional License
- Indiana Substitute Teacher License
- Indiana Teacher Educators License
- AP TIP Trained for AP Biology
- CPR Certified
- Certified Naloxone Responder
Timeline
High School Biology Teacher
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology
06.2024 - Current
Middle School Science Teacher
Hammond Academy of Science and Technology
07.2019 - Current
Paraprofessional Instructional Aide
Morton Elementary- School City of Hammond
10.2017 - Current
Aide
Chicago Public Schools
01.2013 - 09.2015
Mother
Kleszynski-Powers Domain
08.2008 - Current
Administrative Assistant
Tetra Tech
05.2002 - 04.2005
B.S. - Biology
Mount St. Clare College
Master of Arts - Secondary Education
Ball State University