Influencer of the Week: Michael Kleinfelt, Windermere High School

As the student resource deputy at Windermere High School, Michael Kleinfelt is a familiar face for students and staff at the school. He has been in law enforcement since 2001. In addition, Kleinfelt owns and operates iDroneFlorida and has created a drone video celebrating the WHS Class of 2020 that can be seen on the business’ Facebook page, facebook.com/idronefl.
 

What do you love most about your school? 

I love the inclusivity and diversity of Windermere High School. I love how the parents, students and staff work together to make Windermere High School a great school. I also love the talent found within Windermere High School.
 

What brought you to Windermere? 

About three years ago, I decided to get my bachelor’s degree; I was a late bloomer, and at 36 years old, I enrolled at the University of Central Florida. At the time I decided to go back to university, I was a sex-crimes investigator, so I transferred to the Orange County Courthouse and went to the University of Central Florida as a full-time student. In August 2019, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in legal studies — writing and research. After I graduated, my family and I moved to Windermere. After moving to Windermere, I was told a position opened up at the high school. I submitted for the job, and I was selected. 
 

What’s your favorite part of your job?

Being in TikToks! I never knew what TikTok was until I arrived at the high school. The judges and attorneys really weren’t into that, and I’ve learned that I have the moves of a total dad! I have also enjoyed being one of the five wrestling coaches. Before COVID-19, I was working with Mr. (Douglas) Guthrie, the principal, to organize a drone technology club, the first in Orange County. However, the favorite part of my job is being a mentor and a role model. The school is its own community within our community. When you’re an SRD, you are literally the “only sheriff in town.”
 

What motivates you and pushes you to do your best?

My family and being a role model in our community are my biggest motivations. I am a graduate and product of Orange County Public Schools (WOHS Class of 1999, Last and Best!), so I am motivated to show that OCPS Means Success.
 

What’s the nicest thing a student or faculty member has done for you?

On National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, the SGA hung a huge poster outside of my partner, Deputy Curtis, and my office. The students gave us balloons and doughnuts. … I guess they knew cops like balloons! Accompanying the poster were handwritten cards from the students saying how much they appreciate us in their community. 
 

What do you like doing in your spare time?

I love working on my honey-do-list, which, thanks to COVID-19, is almost nearing its end. I like spending time with my family, friends, and neighbors. I love offshore fishing with my buds. I also love flying my drones and creating content for my drone photography business. Drones are a growing technology, so I am always trying to learn as much as I can. I hope to eventually fly drones for Sheriff Mina and Undersheriff Canty.