Klein, Texas— Klein ISD’s Northampton Elementary School, reimagined and rebuilt under the voter-approved 2022 Bond, has earned a Star of Distinction for Value in the 2025–26 Exhibit of School Architecture.
The Northampton Elementary rebuild was designed by PBK Architects and recognized for delivering an exceptional educational environment and long-term operational efficiency while maximizing taxpayer investment.
“This recognition reflects the power of thoughtful design, strong planning, and a community that believes every student deserves inspiring places to learn,” Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown said. “Northampton’s rebuild shows how we can honor a beloved neighborhood school while modernizing it for today’s learners.”
What the Award Recognizes
The Exhibit of School Architecture showcases Texas school facilities that excel in categories such as design, value, wellness, community, planning, and transformation. Northampton was singled out for Value, a category that highlights how projects deliver educational impact, durability, operational savings, and flexibility over time.
About the Northampton Rebuild
Originally opened in the 1970s, Northampton Elementary underwent a comprehensive rebuild to address aging infrastructure, enhance safety, and align spaces with today’s instructional models. Major upgrades include collaborative grade-level learning pods, improved site circulation and parking, a refreshed and secure main entry, modern classroom technology, and fully updated mechanical and building systems.
The campus reopened to students in August 2024 after a year-long relocation to the district’s Flex School.
“From day one, our goal was to create a high-performing school that’s safe, flexible, and fiscally responsible,” Klein ISD Chief of Operations August Wunderlich said. “Being recognized specifically for Value affirms our approach to stewardship and student-centered design.”
Building on this shared vision, PBK Architects emphasized the partnership behind Northampton’s transformation.
“PBK is honored to partner with Klein ISD on Northampton’s transformation,” Phillip Stewart, principal with PBK Architects, said. “By focusing on adaptable learning neighborhoods, daylight, safety, and efficient systems, the school delivers lasting value for students, teachers, and taxpayers.”
Districtwide Progress Under the 2022 Bond
Northampton Elementary’s recognition is part of a larger bond-driven effort to modernize aging campuses across Klein ISD:
Haude Elementary recently reopened after a full rebuild.
Greenwood Forest Elementary is currently under construction.
Hildebrandt Intermediate was rebuilt earlier in the 2022 Bond cycle, serving as a model for modernized intermediate schools.
Strack Intermediate just reopened after a similar comprehensive rebuild.
Wunderlich Intermediate is currently undergoing a full renovation and rebuild.
These projects, alongside Northampton Elementary, demonstrate Klein ISD’s commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and innovative learning environments while honoring the trust of taxpayers who supported the 2022 Bond.
Statewide Showcase
Northampton’s project will be featured at txEDCON 2025 in Houston, September 12–13, and in the online Exhibit of School Architecture. Klein ISD credits the community’s support through the 2022 Bond for enabling on-time, on-budget delivery that sets a model for future campus modernizations across Klein ISD.