Kaiser Elementary Awarded $5,939 from KEF for ‘Books that ADD Up’ Grant

Kaiser Elementary has been awarded a $5,939 Educator Grant from the Klein ISD Education Foundation (KEF) for the Books that ADD Up initiative, designed to strengthen mathematical literacy by integrating literature and math instruction across K–5 classrooms, helping students build academic vocabulary and connect learning to the world around them.

In a surprise visit from the KEF Celebration Express, the school was honored with the grant alongside Foundation directors, community members, and Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown. The Celebration Express bus brought excitement and recognition as Kaiser Elementary was honored as one of this year's deserving recipients of the grants.

Led by grant writers Carole Thompson, Katrina Alexander, Michelle Cole, and Christina Pina, and sponsored by the Klein ISD Education Foundation in partnership with Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott, the Books that ADD Up project brings math-related books into classrooms to help students make meaningful connections between mathematical concepts and everyday experiences. Research indicates that vocabulary-rich, cross-curricular instruction can enhance reading comprehension by up to 25%, underscoring the effectiveness of integrating subjects to deepen understanding.

This initiative is designed to support a diverse range of learners, including students from low socioeconomic backgrounds and English Language Learners. By appealing to visual, linguistic, and logical learning styles, the project ensures all students can engage meaningfully with mathematical content. The result is improved vocabulary acquisition, enhanced comprehension, and increased enthusiasm for both math and reading.

By making math more visible and accessible through stories and real-world contexts, Books that ADD Up will cultivate student curiosity, close achievement gaps, and promote rigorous, engaging learning for all.

“This grant provides an excellent opportunity to bring math into the real world for kids,” Klein Education Foundation President Bill Lakin said. “It is challenging to connect mathematics to everyday applications if you are not introduced to those scenarios early on in your learning. This is an excellent addition to the classroom, bridging the mathematical skills needed and the vocabulary that accompanies them!”

This spring, the KEF Celebration Express distributed grants totaling $92,569 to support various innovative and impactful educational initiatives. From 3D printers to yearbook club essentials, this year’s recipients exemplify the power of creativity in education.

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 on a biannual basis. It supports creative projects that enrich student learning and drive academic success.