Klein Police Honor Students With K9 Courage, Kindness Awards

By Klein ISD

May 16^th, 2025

Klein, Texas—The Klein ISD Police Department concluded the 2024–25 school year with its inaugural K9 Student Award Celebration, recognizing young leaders for exemplary acts of bravery and compassion. Hosted by Chief of Police Marlon Runnels, the event welcomed students, families, educators, and officers to celebrate character and community.

Klein Police Honor Students With K9 Courage, Kindness Awards

Two Awards Inspired by Four-Legged Heroes

The department introduced two new recognitions this year—the Bax Acts Award and Quinn’s Courageous Kids Award—named after Klein ISD’s K9 partners.

“One of our favorite things to do is recognize students who go above and beyond—not just in academics, but in kindness, courage and doing the right thing even when it’s hard,” Chief Runnels said. “That’s what these awards are all about.”

The Bax Acts Award, honoring the friendly and caring nature of K9 Bax, celebrates students who consistently demonstrate kindness. The Quinn's Courageous Acts Award, named for K9 Quinn’s perseverance through health challenges, is given to students who show exceptional courage in difficult circumstances.

Honoring Everyday Bravery

Third-grader Jacory Hatfield from Mahaffey Elementary received the Quinn’s Courageous Kids Award for stepping in to defend a classmate and help others in need.

“The award tells me how great I was during the school year, and it encouraged me to do more things,” Jacory said. “Helping people makes me happy—you make friends, and it’s just good to help people.”

Fourth-grader Francis Beth of Kohrville Elementary was recognized with the Bax Acts Award for consistently supporting her classmates and keeping her classroom environment positive.

“It feels really good and exciting,” Francis said. “My advice to other students is to be confident and be kind.”

Officers Reflect on Positive Policing

Corporal Plumber, who helped launch the program, shared that the idea was inspired by K9 Quinn’s near-fatal health scare.

“We wanted to recognize the good things students do that often go unnoticed,” Plumber said. “The stories we received were incredibly moving.”

Corporal Alex Grimaldo, K9 Bax’s partner, emphasized the award’s influence on student behavior.

“If other kids see that and see this award happening, it’ll inspire them to be kind as well,” Grimaldo said. He recalled one award winner who took swift, mature action during a medical emergency involving a fellow student, calling for help and calming the scene with composure beyond his years.

Closing Out the Year With Purpose

The celebration concluded with food, family photos, and heartfelt thanks.

“These are students who will do tremendous things for this district and beyond,” Chief Runnels said. “Thank you to our families, our educators, and especially our kids.”