500+ Students Graduate from Leadership and H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy

Klein ISD police and counselors recently honored 573 students at graduation ceremonies held to recognize their completion of the Klein ISD Leadership Academy and H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy program.

This year’s Leadership Academy Program was truly one to remember. All 32 Klein ISD elementary schools participated—an impressive growth from its humble beginnings in 2015, when only 12 schools were involved. Meanwhile, the H.E.R.O.E.S. Academy proudly celebrated its graduating class, which included students from 10 intermediate schools across the district.

“I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride as I reflect on the Klein ISD Leadership Academy, especially as we celebrated its 10th anniversary,” Klein ISD Police Chief Marlon Runnels said. “This program is more than just a milestone; it’s a testament to the incredible students, dedicated police officers, campus guards, and supportive counselors who come together to inspire growth and leadership. Seeing our students thrive and knowing we’ve played a part in their journey fills my heart with joy. I’m truly honored to be part of this special program and to watch our future leaders shine.”

The Leadership Academy was established to foster consistent and positive interactions between school district police officers and students, thereby providing leadership development opportunities and enhancing critical thinking skills among our students. 

In partnership with each school counselor, Klein ISD officers meet once a week with students from their assigned campuses and teach meaningful lessons through open conversations and various activities.  

“Moving to Texas and starting at a new school was a big change, but being part of the Leadership Academy taught me that leadership means stepping out of your comfort zone, being kind, listening to others, and always trying to do the right thing - even when it’s hard,” Leadership Academy graduate Jesse said. “I’m so thankful for my teachers, my family, my counselor, the Klein Police Officers, and everyone who helped me grow into the leader I’m becoming.”

The success of this program has caught the attention of school district police officers and counselors from all across Texas. As a result, many school districts are now interested in introducing Leadership Academy lessons to their students to foster the same positive relationships that we have here in Klein ISD.

Congratulations, graduates! Keep on shining & leading!

Click the buttons below for pictures from the Leadership Academy and HEROES Academy Graduations.

Klein High Ceremony
Klein Forest Ceremony
Klein Collins Ceremony
Klein Collins Ceremony on 4.10