Steven C. Kleppe began his career as a professional educator with a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the field of education, specializing in both science and sociology over 25 years ago.  During the decades that followed, he has worn many hats, held a number of continuously challenging positions in the field (from science teacher to high school administrator) and has come to be known as an expert teacher, exceptional educational administrator and respected humanitarian.    Throughout his tenure as both teacher and principal, Kleppe was known as an advocate for the “best interests of the child,” promoting integrated learning environments, championing guidance and art education and always working to promote “people centered” educational programs and ideas.  His many accomplishments in public education include:

·         A Bachelor’s of Science in Education, followed by a Master’s Degree and work on a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership.

·         15 years working with Jr. High and High School students - including founding the middle school’s student council program … years as wrestling coach, student council advisor, etc.

·         Tenure as the High School’s Vice Principal and a subsequent 10 years as elementary school principal.  Additionally responsible for overseeing the entire district’s Strategic Planning processes from 1992 to 1996.

With an introduction to Chinese Kenpo Karate in the early 70s, Kleppe also took the first steps on another journey into the world of Martial Arts.  What started as an attraction to Taoist Philosophy and the physical activity of Chinese Kung Fu would become an avocation and then a way of life.  Little did he know that it would eventually blend itself into his professional world and transform this public school teacher and administrator into a teacher of movement, an artist and healer.   Upon resigning his position as Administrator in the New Berlin Public School System, Steve continued his training in Chinese Kung Fu and continued to nurture the seeds of a growing following of students in this area.  His studies with his long-time Chinese Martial Arts Master, SiGong Kwong Wing Lam, opened many doors.

• He has had the honor of studying with such known individuals as Master Xu Bo-Ran (Northern Shao Lin Preying Mantis), Master Adam Shu (Northern Islamic Shao Lin Kung Fu), Master Jin Heng Li (Traditional Wushu) and, of course, SiFu Kwong Wing Lam and his Tai Chi master, Sun Jian Yun.
• He has trained at Shaolin Temple, WuDang Temple and Ermei in mainland China, returning regularly to maintain a course of training in movement and healing.
• As an instructor with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Professional Theatre Training Program, SiFu (teacher) Kleppe has taught body movement to three graduating classes of professional actors and has been an invited guest at the Shanghai Theatre Academy in 2002.
• His Shaolin Kung Fu Institute, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, provides individuals of all backgrounds with traditional Chinese kung fu training, including classes in Tai Chi, Chi Kung, Chin Na and Taoist philosophy.  Current enrollment includes over 120 students.

• The Lion Dance team founded by Steve at the Shaolin Kung Fu Institute continues to promote Chinese culture through dance and demonstrations annually with the Milwaukee Area Families with Children from China, with local schools, and most recently, welcoming Milwaukee Buck’s newest recruit, Li Jianlian from mainland China.

An exceptional speaker and educator, Steve Kleppe brings to his presentations not only a firm foundation in the Chinese arts, but an honesty of spirit and a personal integrity that are integral to these teachings.  Often requested to speak on alternative health and fitness, his frequent engagements include presentations to the ARC program for handicapped children and adults, the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Heritage School of Alternative Medicine in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma