Klein ISD Scholars Dive Into Particle Physics with Rice Professors

Klein, Texas—Twenty-nine high school students from across the Houston area—including 18 from Klein High School, Klein Cain, and Klein Forest—took part in an immersive particle physics workshop at Rice University. Organized by QuarkNet and led by Rice professors Dr. Frank Geurts and Dr. Darin Acosta, the full-day event introduced students to real-world data from Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at CERN, a well-known laboratory for particle physics.

The annual workshop is designed to give students hands-on experience with particle physics and data analysis, allowing them to explore beyond the traditional high school physics curriculum. Five dedicated Klein ISD teachers served as chaperones to help ensure the success of this academic enrichment opportunity.

“Physics education typically covers the historical aspects of physics, focusing on Newtonian physics and electromagnetism,” Klein High Chemistry and Physics Teacher Mary Yarbray said. “We can enhance our teaching of traditional topics by connecting them to contemporary research like particle physics, which explores the fundamental building blocks of nature.”

During the workshop, students analyzed real data from the CMS experiment and participated in a video conference with physicists from Fermilab to discuss their findings and ask questions. The program also featured a special "Physics on Parade" segment during lunch, with dynamic demonstrations led by Rice students and faculty.

“We learned about quantum mechanics and particle physics during the workshop,” Klein Forest senior Carlos Paredes said. “My AP Physics teacher, Mr. Griffin, introduced me to this opportunity, knowing my passion for understanding the tiniest components of our universe. The benefits of this workshop include hands-on experience with technology and laboratories—something I’ve never had before. Meeting professors, connecting with like-minded students, and engaging in real science has been a catalyst for what I want to do in life.”

Paredes shared that the experience has reinforced his aspiration to pursue a degree in astronomy and, eventually, a Ph.D. in astrophysics—with hopes of contributing to institutions like MIT, Harvard, or NASA.

View Workshop Photos

QuarkNet’s mission is to equip educators with tools to integrate modern particle physics into high school curricula, aligning with Klein ISD’s strategic vision to prepare students for life beyond graduation. The program is generously supported by the American Coalition of CERN, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

This particle physics workshop has been in place for years, with many former students participating and moving on to become physics scholars. 

Max Hall-Brown, a Klein High alumnus and current Physics Ph.D. candidate at Rice University, reflected on how his Klein education shaped his academic journey.

“Klein ISD has a great breadth of opportunities from smaller technical electives in niche topics to extracurricular activities focused around academics,” Hall-Brown said. “While at Klein, I felt like there were always new ways to learn and challenge myself, which fostered an attitude to always look for new and exciting things to engage with. A few of the extracurricular activities, like the particle physics workshop, also led to lifelong relationships, including one with Dr. Geurts, who I still interact with at Rice.”

As Klein ISD continues to foster opportunities that ignite passion and purpose in students, experiences like the Rice Particle Physics Workshop exemplify the district’s mission while encouraging students to uncover new interests and potential every step of the way. 

Thank you to Dr. Geurts and Dr. Acosta for leading this workshop, and thank you to our physics teachers who gave their time to ensure our kids had this wonderful experience.