Klein, Texas— As the school year nears its end and families across the region prepare for summer break, Klein ISD is proud to celebrate a remarkable recognition: Nitsch Elementary has been named one of the Houston Schools That Inspire by Good Reason Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring every child has access to a high-quality public education.
This distinction was announced during Teacher Appreciation Week on Great Day Houston, where Good Reason Houston CEO Cary Wright emphasized the importance of spotlighting schools that are making a measurable difference for all students.
“Nearly a million kids attend one of almost a thousand schools in our region,” Wright said. “Public education is not only critical for their futures but for the strength of our entire community.”
The Houston Schools That Inspire initiative honors campuses where students—regardless of background—are excelling. These schools demonstrate strong academic outcomes for economically disadvantaged students, students receiving special education services, and students of color.
“It’s not about popularity,” Wright added. “It’s about performance—looking at real student achievement data and how campuses are closing gaps across the board.”
Under the leadership of Frank Ward, 2022 Klein ISD Elementary Principal of the Year, Nitsch Elementary has cultivated a culture of excellence built on structure, visibility, and strong relationships.
“The students and teachers were already great,” Principal Ward said. “They just needed the structure and systems that allow them to shine.”
Principal Ward and his team prioritize presence on campus, ensuring students see leadership as a constant, encouraging presence rather than a distant authority.
“We’re not hidden behind walls. The kids see us all day long—not just when they’re in trouble,” Ward shared.
Nitsch Elementary’s achievements are not just anecdotal. The school is ranked among the top three highest-performing elementary campuses in Texas and has received the U.S. Department of Education’s prestigious National Blue Ribbon School Award for both high achievement and success in closing academic gaps.
Klein ISD Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown, who began her career as a classroom teacher, commended the Nitsch team for their impact.
“Principal Ward represents so many extraordinary people in our Klein Family who choose to use their gifts to make a positive impact on the lives of kids,” Dr. McGown said. “It brings our whole community joy to see that success.”
As part of the broader Houston Loves Teachers campaign, Wright encouraged community members to find simple ways to support educators—whether through bringing food trucks to campuses or simply asking, “How can I help?”
To learn more about the Nitsch Elementary's Houston Schools That Inspire award, visit, https://goodreasonhouston.org/houston-schools-that-inspire-nitsch-elementary-school-2025-winner/.
© 2026 Klein ISD
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