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Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

By Klein ISD Terencia Lee

May 15^th, 2025

Klein, Texas—In a powerful celebration of partnership and purpose, Klein ISD honored 297 parents and caregivers today at the 11th Annual Parent University Graduation, held at Faithbridge Church. The event marked more than a decade of meaningful family engagement and recognized the vital role families play in student success.

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

A Legacy of Engagement and Growth

Parent University empowers Klein ISD parents to become full partners in their children’s education. Since its founding in 2013 by Dr. Bob Anderson at Klein Intermediate, the program has expanded to more than 19 campuses, offering both in-person and virtual sessions across topics like academics, wellness, and personal development.

This year’s graduating class included:

297 total graduates
69 with Master Credit Distinction

“It's an honor to celebrate this year's Parent University, themed ‘Together Embracing Our Promise,’ recognizing the vital partnerships between families, dedicated staff, and community members. By fostering these connections, Parent University empowers families to actively support their children's educational journey and future success,” Family Engagement Director Maria Ovalle Lopez said. “Our families are stronger, and our community is more connected because of the consistent, heartfelt investment from our parents and staff.”

A Father’s Voice and a Son’s Thanks

Among the standout speakers was Edinson Hurtado, a Klein Cain parent and graduate of Parent University, who delivered a heartfelt message about the power of presence.

“Today is not just about milestones,” Hurtado said. “It’s about the late nights, the early mornings, the encouragement, the prayers, and the perseverance that brought us here. If it matters to our kids, it matters to us. And we show up—because we love them. Love moves us, not convenience.”

His son, Nicholas “Nico” Hurtado, a Klein Cain student active in academics, track, choir, and student leadership, echoed his father's sentiments from the stage.

“Even the small stuff, like asking how my day went or showing up to every event—it means the world to me,” Nico said. “He was there even when I cracked a note in choir or messed up in a race. Just knowing he was there helped me get through it.”

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Superintendent’s Encouragement

Dr. Jenny McGown, Superintendent of Schools, welcomed graduates and their families with a message of appreciation and encouragement.

“Your children will remember this day,” Dr. McGown said. “They will know the opportunities and experiences they have were made possible because of your countless sacrifices, big and small. As a fellow Klein ISD mom, thank you for the love and care you give, and for being true partners with us in Klein ISD.”

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Nearly 300 Parents Graduate from Klein ISD’s Parent University in Heartfelt Ceremony

Keynote Reflections from a Lifelong Educator

Chris Ruggerio, Executive Director of Human Resource Services, and a longtime Klein ISD leader, delivered the keynote address.

“Family engagement isn’t something we leave to chance,” Ruggerio said. “Your presence, encouragement, and quiet strength—just like the ones I saw growing up—are the foundation of student success. This moment is about what happens when families and schools work together with purpose.”

Ruggerio praised graduates as “trailblazers, advocates, and partners” in Klein ISD’s mission that every student enters with a promise and exits with a purpose.

Chris Ruggerio, Executive Director of Human Resource Services

Voices of Purpose and Resilience

Graduate Khadijah Ray delivered a moving reflection, recounting her journey from uncertainty to empowerment after joining Parent University through Grace England ECC five years ago.

“Programs like this don’t exist everywhere,” Ray said. “We showed up, between jobs and responsibilities, because we believe in our kids. Our children are thriving because they see us leading by example. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.”

Ray expressed deep gratitude to Klein ISD’s faculty and liaisons for creating a welcoming, inclusive space for families of all backgrounds.

Parent Graduate Khadijah Ray

Moving Forward with Purpose

Today’s graduation was more than a celebration—it was a call to continued partnership. As Dr. McGown noted, “The future is brighter because of the hours we put in together.”

Klein ISD encourages all families to continue learning, growing, and engaging in their child’s educational journey.

To learn more about Parent University and how to get involved, visit kleinisd.net/parentuniversity.

Photo Gallery

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© 2026 Klein ISD Terencia Lee

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