Klein Collins High School and Benignus Elementary School Awarded $10,006 from KEF for “Architects of Sustainability” Grant

KLEIN, TEXAS – Klein Collins High School and Benignus Elementary School have been awarded a $10,006 Multi-Campus Grant from the Klein ISD Education Foundation (KEF) for the "Architects of Sustainability" initiative, designed to foster collaboration across grade levels while engaging students in real-world problem-solving through the lens of sustainable design and architecture.

In a surprise visit from the KEF Celebration Express, both schools were honored with the grant alongside Foundation directors, community members, and Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown. 

Led by mother-daughter grant writers Tracey Hall and Sarah Hall, and sponsored by the Klein ISD Education Foundation in partnership with PBK, the Architects of Sustainability project will connect high school and elementary students in a cross-curricular, hands-on experience inspired by the architecture of Venice, Florence, and Rome. Students will work together to design model cities incorporating sustainable features, exploring core concepts such as efficient material use, climate-responsive design, and resource conservation.

Students will build cooperative and problem-solving skills throughout the project while engaging in peer teaching and meaningful collaboration. The final city models will be featured at the district’s Fine Arts Festival, showcasing student creativity and teamwork, and presented at the District Gifted and Talented Showcase, where students will reflect on their learning and discuss their sustainability-focused designs.

The initiative includes interactive lessons and presentations on architecture and materials, accompanied by demonstrations that introduce students to new construction techniques and responsible resource use. Student groups will collaborate both in person and via TEAMS meetings to develop their model cities, fostering engagement, communication, and interdisciplinary learning.

“This cross-campus grant opportunity is perfect for younger and older students alike. Students of any age love working with students across campuses,” KEF President Bill Lakin said. “Engineering and sustainability are vital in today’s real-world living. These students will be afforded a great opportunity to see into the future of what can be!”

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 biannually. It supports creative projects that enrich student learning and drive academic success.