Justine K. Klena became an executive principal (interim) for Region 3 in September 2023.

Klena has more than 30 years of experience in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) including work as a principal, assistant principal, special education department chair, and special education teacher.  She has extensive experience in school leadership, especially in leading professional learning so that teachers and staff are prepared to meet the diverse and changing needs of our students. 

At Herndon Middle School, where Klena was principal for 14 years, she championed innovative practices to enhance positive and inclusive practices for students and teachers.  Klena has been recognized as an FCPS Restorative Justice Administrator of the Year, and Herndon Middle was a Virginia Department of Education Model School for Co-teaching.  She also led the instructional program to strengthen practices in differentiation for diverse learners. Under her leadership, Herndon Middle was awarded an FCPS Excellence in Equity Award for Closing the Gap and Raising the Bar.  In 2016, Klena was recognized as the FCPS Outstanding Principal.

Klena is a passionate leader and educator who believes that all students can thrive in our schools when families, teachers, and staff have the support and tools they need to meet the changing needs of our students and communities.

After retiring in 2022, Klena returned to continue in interim roles as principal in Region 3 at Sandburg Middle School, Key Middle School, and Whitman Middle School.  

Klena holds a master’s degree in special education and a master’s degree in educational leadership.