Dr. TJ Klein selected as principal of Ralph Stearley Primary School

Department of Defense Education Activity Pacific South District Superintendent Dr. Melissa Hayes is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. TJ Klein as principal of Ralph Stearley Intermediate School, effective May 19, 2024.

Dr. Klein brings more than 23 years of experience in education to Ralph Stearley, having served in Michigan, Arizona, South Carolina (Ft. Jackson - DoDEA Americas), Korea (Daegu Elementary School - DoDEA Pacific West), Germany (Netzaberg Elementary School - DoDEA Europe East and Spangdahlem Elementary School – DoDEA Europe West). Over the years, he has taught Middle School Science, Physical Education, and self-contained grades 3-8. He worked in various roles throughout his career to include Interim Principal, Assistant Principal, MTSS, Continuous School Improvement (CSI) Chairperson, Grade Level Chair, head basketball coach, head soccer coach, various committees and clubs, and has worked closely with the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA).

He holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration (Ed.D), Master of Arts in Elementary Education (MAED), Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM), Associate of Applied Science in Meteorology (AAS), Associate of Arts (AA), and a Graduate Certificate in Gifted and Talented.

Dr. TJ Klein is a native of Flint, Michigan and grew up in an Air Force family. As a decorated Air Force veteran (weather forecaster), he has lived extensively in Michigan, Arizona, South Carolina, and several other overseas locations. These varying experiences help him to understand the military child and the challenges that come with living in a military family. There is nothing he would rather do than serve military students and their families, as it is an honor and a privilege.

He and his beautiful wife are empty nesters, as their adult children have moved to the next chapters of their lives. All their children, at some point, attended DoDEA schools overseas or schools on military installations. As a family, they have either lived in or visited more than 20 different countries and love to meet new people, experience new cultures, and serve others.

Outside of school, much of his time is spent teaching, helping others, traveling, reading, writing, mentoring others, and playing card games with his wife. Dr. TJ Klein is honored to serve the families of Ralph Stearley Primary School - DoDEA Pacific South and others stationed in Okinawa at Kadena Air Base.