Klein District News - Fall 2023

a message from our SUPERINTENDENT DR. JENNY MCGOWN facebook.com /jennymcgownsupt

@jenny_mcgown

@jennymcgownsupt

Dear Klein Family and Community, The 2022-2023 concluded with tremendous accomplishments that have further strengthened our district’s Triple-A tradition of excellence in Academics, the Arts, and Athletics.

As an educator, parent, and community member, I am grateful to call Klein ISD my personal and professional home. I am deeply invested in our community, and I’m so proud of the outstanding achievements that showcase our district’s collective success.

I take great pride in sharing Klein ISD’s annual performance report with our community so that you may learn more about the ways that our remarkable students and staff members dedicate themselves to our longstanding tradition of excellence in education.

Our Klein ISD students and their success are the foundation of everything we do.

We are grateful for the honor of partnering with you in our students’ educational journey. Thank you for your continued support.

Gratefully,

Dr. Jenny McGown

PG 2 1

Congratulations

to our award-winning Superintendent!

YOU'RE CORDIALLY INVITED

23rd Annual Veterans Day Ceremony NOV. 10, 2023 | 9:30 AM KLEIN MEMORIAL STADIUM HOME SIDE @ LYONS SCHOOL ROAD 16607 STUEBNER AIRLINE RD | KLEIN, TX 77379 A GRAB & GO STYLE LIGHT BREAKFAST WILL BE PROVIDED AS GUESTS LEAVE THE STADIUM.

CAN'T ATTEND? JOIN ONLINE FOR LIVESTREAM:

WWW.KLEINISD.NET

Klein ISD proudly announces its recent recognition as the top-rated district by parents across the Greater Houston area, according to evaluations on Niche.com. This distinction serves as a reflection of the district's unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled educational experiences and maintaining a strong connection with our families and Klein community.

PG 2

Excelling in Klein ISD’s results from the first round of the redesigned and more rigorous State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exams have been released and indicate year-overyear academic gains, even in light of the fact that students had to answer more questions correctly in order to receive a passing score. These results showcase Klein ISD's steadfast commitment to educational excellence, with the district outperforming both the state and region.

Key Highlights: Klein ISD performed at or above the state level in 13 regular STAAR assessments. Due to increased rigor and a complete test rewrite by the Texas Education Agency, direct comparisons between 2022 and 2023 scores aren’t informative or comparative. Even still, Klein ISD saw gains in several regular assessment areas.

Klein ISD Dual-Credit students earned

Klein ISD AP Scholars:

25,898

595

10%

hours or

students

Increase in Dual-Credit Courses Taken

2,872

Klein ISD Students Took

4,941

AP Exams

Klein Cain graduate J.T. Phillips is heading to Amazon! During his computer science class, J.T. was surprised with the news that he had been awarded the Amazon Future Engineers scholarship and a summer internship at the company.

The scholarship offered to J.T. is worth $40,000! He spent the summer before college working with Amazon as a paid intern to jumpstart his future career.

PG 3

11%

Increase in students earning the AP Scholar distinction

5,793 courses

8.7%

Increase of juniors and seniors scoring a 3 or higher on the AP Exam

Klein High, Klein Oak, Klein Collins, and Klein Cain have all been named among the “Best High Schools in the US” by U.S. News & World Report for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Rankings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of nearly 18,000 public high schools nationwide with evaluation criteria including college readiness, reading, math, and science proficiency, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rates.

“

These rankings are more than just numbers; they are a reflection of our longstanding tradition of excellence and innovation in education that culminates as students prepare to exit with their purpose. It’s a proud moment for Klein ISD, and it validates our unique pathways designed to ensure that every student is college, career, military, and life-ready.

”

- Dr. Jenny McGown, Klein ISD Superintendent

Record-Breaking

$667K Raised During 54th Klein ISD FFA Livestock & Project Show

PG 4

Mastering

Bravo to our Klein High, Klein Forest, and Klein Cain Theatre programs in light of their recent achievement of being named Tommy Tunes Award Winners! Students from these three schools received awards in Outstanding Ensemble, Outstanding Orchestra, Outstanding Scenic Design, Outstanding Actor, and Outstanding Lighting Design.

Marks of Excellence

Krimmel Intermediate Orchestra Ranked

Second in State The TMEA Honor Orchestra competition is noted as one of the most strenuous competitions in the country.

Krimmel is one of six groups to advance to the final round, where they competed and were judged by a five-member panel that ranked the Krimmel Orchestra second in the state.

PG 5

The Foundation for Music Education Mark of Excellence Award: The number of Klein ISD music programs earning recognition continued with 8 outstanding ensembles earning this award during the 2022-23 school year.

6 National award recipients include: Hofius Intermediate Symphonic Band, Ulrich Intermediate Wind Ensemble, Klein Oak HS Wind Ensemble, Klein Oak HS Percussion Ensemble, Doerre Intermediate Chamber Orchestra, Klein Cain HS Chamber Orchestra.

2 Citation of Excellence Award recipients include: Klein Oak HS Symphony and Klein Oak Concert Band.

Krimmel Intermediate Chamber Orchestra was named as Grand Champions of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) National Orchestra Festival.

BEST COMMUNITY FOR MUSIC EDUCATION FOR THE 12TH YEAR IN A ROW

Klein ISD has a long-standing commitment to excellence in our fine arts program. Whether it’s musical, visual, or theatrical, Klein ISD’s Fine Arts Program has been recognized with state and national honors for the achievements of our talented students and educators.

Klein ISD Fine Arts Signing Day

42 students $ 3.7 million 26 universities

19 Klein ISD Musicians Selected for TMEA All-State Music Groups. These All-State musicians represent the top 2% of all music students in Texas.

1 of 9 school districts in Texas to be honored as a Premiere Community for Theatre Education

Klein Oak Marching Band performed at the UIL State Band Competition for the second year in a row.

Klein ISD received the Texas Art Education Association Award for the fifth year in a row. Klein is one of the top 2% of districts in Texas to earn this distinction this year. Klein ISD is 1 of 16 schools to earn this honor each year since the inception of the TAEA program.

PG 6

Award-Winning

GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR 40+ YEARS!

6A UIL STATE CHAMPIONS

The Klein Forest Golden Eagles achieved new heights at the UIL Track & Field State Meet, with the boys soaring to an overall first-place team win and the girls clinching the second-place team win plus several individual wins. This is the second time in program history that the Klein Forest boys have won it all at State.

PG 7

State Champion Klein High Wrestling

State Champion Klein Oak Wrestling

Second in State Klein Oak Cross Country

Klein High’s Isaac Sheeran was crowned State Champion for his respective weight class. For Isaac, this win has been a long time coming. He has previously won State in the 6A 175-pound weight class and placed in the top ranks in 2022 in the 170pound weight class.

Klein Oak Sophomore Rylee Ferranti was crowned State Champion for her respective weight class. She wrestled valiantly in the 6A 185-pound class, managing a record of 423 wins/losses and defeated three seniors on her way to the championship.

The Klein Oak boys and girls cross country teams earned their spot at the State competition, where Class of 2023 Senior Jack Boyd took home second in state! Jack is now running cross country at the University of Texas at Austin.

62 ACADEMIC ALL STATE RECIPIENTS HONORED BY TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION

“

The commitment and dedication shown by these student-athletes is recognized by these awards as top performers throughout the State of Texas. They are an outstanding representation of Klein ISD and the importance of education.

”

Darby Young Klein ISD Director of Athletics

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Klein Collins senior Savannah Carter is known for her versatile skills in softball as a right-handed pitcher and first baseman. She has earned recognition as the 2022 District 15-6A Offensive Player of the Year and has twice been named Team MVP. During this past season, she achieved an impressive milestone by recording 200 strikeouts in a single season!

PG 8

bond funds

PG 9

Klein Oak High School is currently undergoing renovations to address growth and safety.

This is a rendering of what the new front of the school will look like.

Northampton Colts will move back into their completely renovated building in the Fall of 2024.

This is a rendering of what an interior collaborative space will look like.

Hildebrandt Intermediate is currently undergoing a complete renovation to modernize this 50-year-old building. This is a rendering of the new entrance.

Doerre Intermediate is currently undergoing renovation to address growth. This is a rendering of the new secure entrance.

The Klein ISD Board of Trustees adopted a new tax rate of $1.03 at the October 2023 Board of Trustees meeting. This new tax rate is the lowest in 31 years, decreasing 20 cents from last year. Homestead taxes are frozen for citizens with exemptions for those who are over 65 or disabled persons unless the citizen is currently paying below their tax ceiling.

27 YEARS

CONSECUTIVE

20 YEARS

CONSECUTIVE

Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting (GFOA)

18 YEARS ASBO Meritorious Budget Award

ASBO Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting

5 YEARS

CONSECUTIVE

TASBO Purchasing Award of Merit

Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas | Superior Rating

21 YEARS

PG 10

NITSCH ELEMENTARY makes district history!

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program was created to shine a spotlight on the best schools in the United States and to share best practices of outstanding schools across the country.

“This prestigious national recognition is the result of the hard work and fierce dedication of our incredible teachers with the guidance and support of the school’s outstanding leadership, especially Principal Frank Ward,” Klein ISD Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown said. “Klein ISD is so proud of Nitsch Elementary for their unwavering efforts in making learning a community effort, where students, families, and teachers come together to achieve one goal—academic excellence for EVERY student in their collective care.”

This is not the first time our Nitsch Elementary teachers have set high standards for their students and achieved them. In 2022, Nitsch was recognized by the State for their academic performance and historic academic growth.

“From being one of three schools recognized at the state level last year to now being the first-ever Klein ISD elementary school recognized at the national level as a National Blue Ribbon School, the evidence of the collective achievements our Knights have made is outstanding,” Klein ISD Board President Rob Ellis said.

PG 11

”

Nitsch Elementary made history as the first-ever elementary school in Klein ISD to be named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School (NBRS) by the U.S. Department of Education. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 40th year, honors the Nation’s top schools based on academic performance on state and nationally normed assessments and academic progress in closing achievement gaps.

Being named a National Blue Ribbon School means we are fulfilling our mission, which is at the heart of everything we do. It is a simple mission paired with a huge task: Every Child. Every Day. Following this simple guiding principle, we know the possibilities are limitless for our students. Through the diligent work of a staff that believes, collaborates, and moves with a sense of urgency, achieving is more than a dream.

”

- Nitsch Elementary Principal

Frank Ward

COLLEGE, CAREER & Military Readiness Dual Language Pathway

ASE Accreditation

HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT IN 5TH GRADE

HIGH-QUALITY AUTO PATHWAY

The Dual Language pathway has grown from 85 students, when the program began in 2018, to 1,467 students today. This sought-after program is a community favorite, with over 300 new applications from families for the 23-24 school year.

Klein Cain, Klein Collins, Klein Forest, and Klein Oak High Schools achieved an esteemed Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) accreditation. Automotive Technology Pathway graduates increase their chances of securing well-paying positions.

Military Ready

Medical Science Pathway

SERVING OUR COUNTRY

MEDICAL SCIENCE COLLEGE PATHWAY

Nearly 700 Air Force, Space Force, and Army cadets have been enrolled in the combined Klein ISD JROTC Pathways each year for the last 5 years. JROTC instills in high school cadets the values of citizenship, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment.

Our CTE Medical Science College Pathway has doubled its incoming freshman enrollment, showing a rising interest in healthcare careers.

Seniors in this pathway are currently partnering with Houston Methodist Willowbrook for a Health Science Research & Design class.

PG 12

KIDS IN KLEIN SPOTLIGHT Myles Arterberry Klein High Class of 2023 Graduate Myles Arterberry was awarded $225,000 by each of the following institutions: U.S. Military Academy West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Myles is attending West Point where he also plays football.

Mina Cole Mueller Elementary second grader Mina Cole discovered her love for cooking when she started helping her parents in the kitchen a toddler. Her cookbook, Rock Your Kitchen, has gained success, as she has made appearances on Houston Life News and Food Network. Mina's dedication and talent in the kitchen are sure to bring even more success in the future, and her Klein Family eagerly anticipates her next culinary adventures.

Ryan Nguyen

With a strong academic commitment and determination to make his immigrant parents proud, Klein Forest Class of 2023 Graduate Ryan Nguyen not only earned a full-ride scholarship to Yale University to study Philosophy on a pre-med track, he also became a leader at Klein Forest High School, inspiring others to aim high and tap into available resources. Ryan's story embodies their motto "Be the Legacy," as he seeks to empower fellow Golden Eagles and give back to his community.

Ari Leblanc Klein Oak High Class of 2023 Graduate Ari LeBlanc achieved an impressive feat by securing over $1.7 million in merit scholarships, including full rides to six universities. Among her numerous acceptances and scholarship offers, Ari chose to accept Texas Christian University's prestigious Chancellor's scholarship, valued at $215,000, after being deeply impressed by the university's commitment to student success and personal approach.

PG 13

CELEBRATING KLEIN’S EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEES

Gaining local, state, and national recognition

Leslie Howell From breaking down barriers in her dual language classroom to battling and defeating cancer, Ms. Howell has shown she’s capable of just about anything and deserves the prestigious recognition of being named Klein ISD’s 2023 Elementary District Teacher of the Year.

Klein Forest High School’s very own Coach Remon Smith is the National Coach of the Year by MileSplit following a winning track and field season.

“The greatest thrill and enjoyment I get from coaching is watching my athletes’ excitement when they accomplish a feat or an event they thought impossible. I like to see my athletes push themselves outside their comfort zone.”

- Remon Smith Klein Forest Track & Field Coach

Michael Prejean Beloved Klein Oak Social Studies teacher and coach, Mr. Prejean also known as “Coach P,” is positively impacting the lives of his students — both inside the classroom and on the basketball court. As a result, the dedicated educator was recently named Klein ISD’s 2023 Secondary District Teacher of the Year.

Doerre Intermediate science teacher, Mr. Andrew Brown, infuses NASA passion into his classroom through the SPARX Education program, offering handson STEM activities and training for student engagement.

Klein High School's Ms. Evangeline Mitchell was awarded Texas History Teacher of the Year by Gilder Lehrman Institute, a testament to her outstanding achievements and the incredible difference she has made in the lives of her students and other teachers across our school district.

PG 14

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID PERMIT NO. 16 ZIP CODE 78710

Klein Independent School District 7200 Spring Cypress Rd. Klein, TX 77379

ROB ELLIS

KLEIN ISD SCHOOL BOARD

President

Years of Service: 4 Klein ISD Alum, Klein ISD Parent & 2nd-Generation Board Member

Rob is a parent of current Klein ISD students. He is the proud son of a former Klein ISD board member. He graduated from Harvard Law School and the University of Cambridge and clerked for the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Rob is currently Assistant General Counsel at Southwestern Energy.

CATHY M. ARELLANO Vice President

Years of Service: 7 Klein ISD Retired Educator & Parent of Klein ISD Grad

Cathy served at Klein Oak as a teacher, assistant and associate principal before retiring after 40 years in education. Cathy graduated from The University of Texas with a degree in Education. Her son is a Klein Oak grad and employee.

DUSTIN CREAGER Secretary

Years of Service: 2 Klein ISD Parent & Klein Volunteer Firefighter

Dustin has two children, both who attend Klein ISD schools. He works as a financial advisor. Dustin also serves on the Board of the Kailee Mills Foundation and as a volunteer with the Klein Fire Department.

RONNIE K. ANDERSON Trustee

Years of Service: 14 Klein High Alum & Parent of Klein ISD Grads

Ronnie is a Klein High grad. He earned his degree in Sports Management from Texas A&M and is a Senior VP of Risk Management at Holt Lunsford Commercial. He is as a youth Bible study leader at Faithbridge Church.

DOUG JAMES Trustee

Years of Service: 6 Parent of Klein ISD Grads & Klein ISD Grandparent

Doug has lived in the district for more than 30 years. His three children are graduates of Klein Forest. Doug's granddaughter is a current Klein ISD student and his daughters are educators in Klein ISD.

GEORGAN REITMEIER Trustee

Years of Service: 18 Retired Klein ISD Educator & Parent of Klein ISD Grads

Georgan has lived in the district for more than 40 years. Her two children graduated from Klein Forest. Georgan has served Klein ISD for more than 30 years as a parent volunteer and special education program director.

CHRIS TODD Trustee

Years of Service: 5 Klein Oak Alum & Klein ISD Parent

Chris is the father of a Klein Oak grad & current Klein ISD student. A Klein Oak grad himself, he graduated from the University of Houston with a Political Science degree. He is the Church Operations Pastor at Champion Forest.