Naperville North High School history teacher, Michael Jelinek recently won the highest honor at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Illinois High School Teacher competition.
To win the First Place State Title Michael competed at the local Post and District levels. Jelinek’s entry was sponsored by Naperville’s Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873. The contest highlights teachers who promote patriotism, civic responsibilities, and Americanism in the classroom.
Since 2005, Jelinek has been teaching history at Naperville North. He has taught regular, weighted and AP level courses in World History, Government, Military History, and Medieval history.
Jelinek is also a member of the United States Navy Reserve and holds the rank of Lt. Commander.
Jelinek holds degrees from the University of Illinois, where he has both a Bachelor’s Degree and Masters of Education, and the American Military University where he earned a Masters of Arts in Ancient and Classical History. This constant interaction between his careers as a teacher and Navy officer gives Jelinek’s teaching an added dimension.
With the State Title, Jelinek’s entry has been forwarded on to the national VFW where he will compete with teachers from other states throughout the nation for the title of National Teacher of the Year. The National winner receives $1,000 for personal development and his school would also receive $1,000.
Naperville’s Judd Kendall VFW Commander Nina Petru notes, “Michael is a dedicated officer and teacher. He is an asset to Naperville North, the community, and the military. We are proud to have him represent us and we wish him well at National.”
Photo courtesy Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873
