Two Klein ISD Students Named ‘I Am Texas’ Contest Finalists

By Klein ISD Terencia Lee

September 5^th, 2025

There is no shortage of talent in Klein ISD when it comes to the Arts, Academics, and Athletics, and the district’s tradition of excellence continues with students like Klein High School junior Gwendolyn Clark and Klein Cain sophomore Sariah Virgile.

Gwendolyn and Sariah have achieved an incredible honor as finalists in the 2025 I Am Texas Writing and Art Contest, hosted by The Bryan Museum. Gwendolyn impressed judges with her short story, “A Past Mirrored Through Silver,” while Sariah showcased her creativity through her original artwork, “Weathered Wear.” Their remarkable talents in both writing and visual art shine brightly, earning them well-deserved recognition on a prestigious stage.

The ‘I Am Texas’ Writing and Art contest is an annual contest that began in 2022, after 1,000 students made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest student-published book.

“I have always written from the heart because it always manages to ease my mind even in the toughest times. I have always believed my writing was meant to be heard by the world,” Gwendolyn said. “To have this honor of even being a finalist is a dream come true. It made me feel like I had truly conquered something I never thought was possible for me. My life has been blessed and my heart made whole.”

Two Klein ISD Students Named ‘I Am Texas’ Contest Finalists

As finalists, Gwendolyn and Sariah’s writing and art will be published in the 2025 Historian’s Journal, which will become part of the Museum’s permanent library collection. They also received an invitation to the ‘I Am Texas’ reception at The Bryan Museum in Galveston, where the finalists' artwork will be displayed.

“Being an I Am Texas Writing and Art competition finalist is an incredible honor. It shows me that my hard work paid off, and I am so grateful for this achievement,” Sariah said. “For my entire life, art has been a way to take all the thoughts and ideas in my head and turn them into something. I love how diverse and subjective art is. It has been such a fun way for me to make use of my time.”

Winners of the competition will be announced through the ‘I Am Texas' website on September 22.

We are so incredibly proud of these outstanding Klein ISD students. Gwendolyn and Sariah, congratulations on your achievement. Your Klein Family is rooting for you!