KLEIN, TEXAS – The Klein ISD Science Department has been awarded an $11,996 Multi-Campus Grant from the Klein ISD Education Foundation (KEF) for the “LEGOndary STEM Builders in the Science Classroom” initiative, which will bring hands-on engineering and construction experiences into science classrooms across the district.
In a surprise visit from the KEF Celebration Express, the Science Department was honored with the grant alongside Foundation directors, community members, and Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown.
Led by grant writers Marc Williams, Tierny Garner, and Michele Thompson, and sponsored by PBK Architects, the LEGOndary STEM Builders project is designed to make abstract science concepts more concrete and engaging for students. While engineering is now embedded in science standards, it can be challenging for students to visualize and apply these principles. By using Lego-based STEM kits with technology add-ons, students will be able to build models that represent key concepts in Life Science, Physical Science, Earth & Space Science, and Engineering Design.
The grant will fund four complete LEGO STEM kits, enough for one campus to use at a time. Each kit includes materials and resources for 40 lessons aligned with specific science standards. A district science coordinator will travel from campus to campus to collaboratively implement lessons with teachers and students and to evaluate the effectiveness of the kits and instructional strategies.
Through this hands-on, engineering-focused approach, students will have opportunities to design, build, test, and refine their models—just as real-world engineers and scientists do. This process helps deepen understanding of core scientific ideas while strengthening critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and creativity.
“This grant allows Klein ISD students to explore science through hands-on engineering and construction, turning abstract concepts into tangible learning experiences,” Klein ISD Education Foundation Director Christy Spisak said. “The Foundation is proud to invest in innovative projects that make STEM engaging, interactive, and accessible across multiple campuses.”
By incorporating Lego STEM Builders into science instruction, Klein ISD is helping students truly experience science in action. The multi-campus design of the grant ensures that students across the district will benefit from these interactive lessons, supporting Klein ISD’s commitment to future-ready, inquiry-based learning for all.
This fall, the KEF Celebration Express distributed grants totaling $62,057, enriching educational experiences for our learners. These grants encompass a range of innovative and engaging projects, from VR labs to STEM builders. The Fall 2025 grant recipients are innovative and serve as a source of inspiration.
We sincerely thank all our sponsors for making these initiatives possible, enhancing the educational experience, and fostering the growth of Klein ISD students. The Klein ISD Education Foundation accepts grant applications biannually and supports creative projects that enrich student learning and drive academic success.