KLEIN, TEXAS – Kaiser Elementary has been awarded a $7,450 grant from the Klein ISD Education Foundation (KEF) for the “Learning X: Critical Minds” initiative, a transformative, hands-on project that connects students in kindergarten through 3rd grade on a dynamic journey of exploration, creativity, and empowerment.
In a surprise visit from the KEF Celebration Express, Kaiser Elementary was honored with the grant alongside Foundation directors, community members, and Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown.
Led by grant writers Joyce Torres Perez, Jennifer Osorio, Rebeca Rodriguez Saud, Stephanie Loza, and Alicia Alvarado and sponsored by Pogue Construction, Learning X: Critical Minds addresses the need for innovative instruction in early elementary classrooms. Many students, particularly those with learning needs such as autism, ADHD, or developing fine motor skills, face challenges with traditional teaching approaches. This project is designed to meaningfully integrate literacy, mathematics, critical thinking, and character development in a way that meets students where they are.
The initiative centers around five rotating learning stations: Thinking Hands (Kinesthetic), Solve the Challenge (Logic), Explore and Discover (Technology), Sensory Learning, and I Am, I Can (Character). At these stations, students will engage in hands-on, multisensory activities that foster problem solving, collaboration, creativity, and self-expression. By weaving together movement, technology, sensory engagement, and reflective practice, the project supports a wide range of learners and learning styles.
Cross-grade collaboration is a key component of Learning X: Critical Minds, allowing younger and older students within K–3 to learn alongside and from one another. Through these experiences, students will build confidence in their abilities, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and develop resilience as they work through challenges in supportive, engaging environments.
“The Learning X: Critical Minds initiative is a powerful example of how innovative ideas and passionate educators can transform the learning experience for our youngest students,” Klein Education Foundation President Bill Lakin said. “We are proud to support a project that not only nurtures creativity and critical thinking, but also ensures every child—regardless of how they learn—has the opportunity to thrive. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking work that strengthens our schools and inspires our community.”
By combining theory-based design with real-world application, Learning X: Critical Minds prepares young learners to thrive as innovative, compassionate leaders and active global citizens in the 21st century. The project nurtures curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, reflecting Klein ISD’s commitment to providing meaningful, future-ready learning experiences for every student.
This fall, the KEF Celebration Express distributed grants totaling $62,057, enriching educational experiences for our learners. These grants encompass various 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.