ACCESS Celebration Honors Class of 2025 with Heartfelt Tribute

By Klein ISD

May 27^th, 2025

Klein, Texas—In a night filled with gratitude and resounding applause, Klein ISD honored 52 graduating seniors in the district’s ACCESS program at a moving end-of-year celebration. Hosted at the Klein Multipurpose Center, the event brought together students, families, educators, and district leaders in a heartfelt ceremony that highlighted resilience, achievement, and the strength of community.

Honoring Every Journey

The celebration commenced with a formal welcome by John Martinez, Klein ISD Coordinator of ACCESS Units, who emphasized the significance of the moment not only for students but also for their families and the community that supported them along the way.

“Today is a special occasion, not only for our students, but for the family and friends gathered here who helped them get to this point,” Martinez said, setting the tone for an evening of deep appreciation.

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ACCESS Celebration Honors Class of 2025 with Heartfelt Tribute

About the ACCESS Program

Alternative Cross-Curricular Education in a Structured Setting (ACCESS) is a program within Klein ISD’s special education services that provides students with curriculum and instruction tailored to their individual needs. These services are delivered in special education classrooms for students participating in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) through pre-requisite skills. Students engage in an alternate curriculum that includes academics, daily living, social skills, and community involvement—empowering them to succeed in school and beyond.

Support from all in Attendance

District leadership joined in support, including Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown and Board Trustees Cathy Arellano and Nicole Peters. Their presence underscored Klein ISD's commitment to inclusive excellence.

Dr. McGown, a long-time advocate for student success and innovation, praised the graduates and the community for their unwavering dedication.

“You are the reason that we get up every day. You’re the reason that we’re proud to be part of Klein ISD and public education,” Dr. McGown said. “We could not be happier for all of you.”

Recognizing Champions of Support

In a powerful address, Board Trustee Cathy Arellano shared her personal connection to the district’s special education services, reflecting on her son Chance’s journey and celebrating the opportunities the ACCESS program continues to provide.

“This was the opportunity for Chance to have a chance,” Arellano said. “And we get to share that opportunity with you tonight.”

ACCESS Campus Coordinator Leslie Shoesmith echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the celebration’s powerful atmosphere.

“The evening was filled with joy and pride as students, families, and educators gathered to honor the hard work of these individuals,” Shoesmith said. “The event recognized not only academic milestones but also celebrated personal growth, resilience, and the supportive community that has helped students flourish.”

A Celebration of Individual Achievement

Students from all five high schools were recognized by name, each receiving a certificate of attendance.

Family cheers filled the room as each graduate took the stage, celebrated for the unique path they walked and the future they are prepared to embrace.

A Community Uplifted

The evening concluded with gratitude for the ACCESS educators and high school leadership, whose daily efforts make such success possible. Guests were invited to enjoy refreshments, take photos, and mark the moment with loved ones.

“We are so proud of every single one of you,” Martinez said in closing. “We cannot wait to see where the journey takes all of you next. Whatever it is, we’re sure you’re going to flourish.”

This celebration was a vivid reflection of Klein ISD’s vision: every student enters with a promise and exits with a purpose. For the ACCESS Class of 2025, that promise has been kept—and their purpose is just beginning to unfold.