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Ajayla Ries-Ennells was recently hired as an english teacher at Sterling High School in Sterling, IL.
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Just Hired: Ajayla Ries-Ennells

January 15, 2026

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has incredible alumni who are making an impact in the workforce. This series features students from around the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB, IL — Meet Ajayla Ries-Ennells, a graduate of Western Illinois University's English Education program, who was recently hired as an english teacher at Sterling High School in Sterling, IL.

Ward, a Sterling High School graduate, learned of the position through a former teacher. After applying and going through the interview process, it didn't take long for her to learn how the interview went.

"Because of my academic achievement and being an alum of this high school, they immediately accepted my application," Ries-Ennells said. "At the end of the interview they said how much they loved all of my answers and offered me the position outright."

She gave credit to WIU for giving her the tools to begin her teaching career on the right foot and giving her the ability to show that off in her interview.

"Much of that information has helped shape me into the teacher I am and the teacher I am hopeful to continue growing into," Ries-Ennells said. "As an English Education major, this job is exactly what my major was intended to provide me."

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit go.wiu.edu/4eVgEuw.

To learn more about WIU's Education program, visit wiu.edu/education.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing