At Hamilton High School, students often hear the phrase, “Science is the weight room for your mind.” For science teacher Mr. Jake Klinger, this isn’t just a catchy line—it’s a philosophy that shapes how he teaches, mentors, and inspires his students every day.
Klinger joined Hamilton Community Schools in the fall of 2019, bringing with him a deep passion for science and a heart for students who need a place to belong. Currently teaching physics and physical science—and having previously taught chemistry and AP physics—Klinger also leads the school’s Science Olympiad team. His approach to education extends beyond formulas and experiments; it’s about connection, curiosity, and character.
“One of the things I’m really passionate about is students who need a home,” Klinger shared. “Students who don’t find themselves on a sports team or connected to school in any other way. I think I was that kid myself. For me, kids that need a home—that’s where I find my passion.”
That passion is visible in his classroom, where students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and explore different ways of understanding the world around them. Klinger often reminds his students that “there’s more than one way to get to Grandma’s house”—a reminder that problem-solving and learning take many forms.
Last year, Klinger helped develop a new Physical Science course at Hamilton High School to support students transitioning into upper-level science classes. The goal: to build confidence and strengthen foundational skills, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.
“For me, science has always been something I’ve been fascinated by—whether it’s chemistry, physics, or space,” Klinger said. “There’s a deep level of understanding that we can gain from studying science about our world. It brings great purpose to see that our world is ordered in such a way that makes sense and has meaning.”
Originally from the Kalamazoo area, Klinger says moving to Hamilton was the right fit for both his professional and personal life. “It just seemed like a great place and a great fit for my family values,” he shared. “Hamilton has done a great job bringing in people who care—who love, who teach, and who invest in our kids. It’s a great place to live and work.”
In the classroom, through Science Olympiad, or simply by being a trusted adult students can count on, Mr. Klinger continues to embody what it means to teach with both head and heart—proving that science isn’t just about understanding the world, but also about helping students find their place in it.
