The next Katy Conversations that Count event is March 8, 2011

Contact Information:
Marcy Canady
Asst. Superintendent for School & Community Engagement
281-396-2355

Are you interested in providing your input on topics and issues that are of interest to our community and school district? Do you believe that a community can grow together when people make an effort to know and understand each other?

If so, then Katy Conversations that Count is for you.

Katy Conversations that Count provides Katy ISD residents the opportunity to get to know one another at dinner events with 6-8 participants and discuss issues and topics that are relevant to our community. These dinners are held in private homes, churches or restaurants all over town on the same night and discussion is led by a trained facilitator who guides participants through questions designed to elicit thoughts and opinions on issues facing our community.

The next Katy Conversations that Count event is March 8, 2011. If you would like to be part of this "conversation" please take a moment to register. In addition, we are looking for individuals to serve as hosts and facilitators (see below for responsibilities of each).

Have questions? Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page.

Host Responsibilities

Before the event:

• Register by the cut-off date on the Katy Conversations that Count Web site.
• Complete a required orientation session.
• Provide a location (home, private room at a restaurant, church or other suitable private location) and food for 6 - 8 guests. A typical dinner would consist of bread, a light appetizer, a simple main course - such as a casserole or salad - and a desert.
• Discuss the event process and flow for the evening with the assigned facilitator.

Night of the event:

• Greet and host the participants and facilitator.
• Provide dinner.

Facilitator Responsibilities

Before the event:

• Register by the cut-off date on the Katy Conversations that Count Web site.
• Complete a required training session.
• Familiarize yourself with materials and guidelines before the event.
• Discuss with assigned host the flow of the evening and each person's responsibilities.

Night of the event:

• Create an emotionally safe environment for the host and participants so that everyone is encouraged to share honestly and openly.
• Present the purpose and action steps for the evening.
• Explain the "right to pass" and "no interruption" policy.
• Manage the timing of the evening to ensure that the dinner is concluded by 8:00 p.m.
• Lead icebreaker discussion and transition to "questions."
• Lead session closing and feedback gathering.
• Ensure that notes are taken to record the highlights of the conversation.

Guest Responsibilities

Before the event:

• Register by the cut-off date on the Katy Conversations that Count Web site.

 Night of the event:

• Come prepared to discuss openly the opportunities and challenges facing our district and community among neighbors who care about Katy just as much as you!