Stefanie Erin Kellenberger, a 41-year-old former middle school teacher from Ohio, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after admitting to sexually abusing her daughter’s teenage babysitter. Kellenberger, who previously taught English to sixth graders at Shelby Middle School, pleaded guilty to four counts of third-degree felony sexual battery and 17 counts of third-degree felony unlawful sexual conduct with a minor in August.
Prosecutors had offered Kellenberger two sentencing options: a flat 12-year prison term or a 15-year term with the possibility of judicial release after 10 years. Kellenberger chose the latter. Upon her release, she will be required to register as a Tier III sex offender and re-register every 90 days for the rest of her life.
Judge Brent Robinson clarified the terms of Kellenberger’s sentence during the court proceedings. He emphasized that the 15-year sentence could be served in full, depending on Kellenberger’s behavior in prison. He stated that the hope was for Kellenberger to demonstrate model behavior over the next decade, thereby qualifying for early release.
As part of her sentencing, Kellenberger agreed to permanently surrender her teaching license and to avoid any future contact with the victim. She will also be on parole for five years following her release from prison.
The abuse began in February 2020 when the victim was only 13 years old. The sexual relationship between Kellenberger and the girl started after the victim turned 14 and continued until she was 16. Kellenberger was placed on paid administrative leave in February 2024 when the abuse was discovered.
During her sentencing, Kellenberger expressed remorse for her actions, apologizing to her victim, who had also worked as her daughter’s babysitter. She acknowledged her position of trust and the emotional pain she had caused. Kellenberger also apologized to her daughter, expressing regret for the impact her actions would have on her child’s life.