| Katy ISD Encouraging Families to Apply for National School Lunch Program | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1505 | Katy ISD Encouraging Families to Apply for National School Lunch Program | 2021-09-15T14:27:33Z | <div class="ExternalClassC93452D1CC014F13A50567D7F2EBE659"><p>Thousands of Katy ISD families are still eligible for free and reduced price benefits including discounted exam and course fees and reduced internet service costs. Those families who have not submitted their annual National School Lunch Program application are missing out on these and other benefits! <br></p><p>“The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently providing free meals to all public school students because of the ongoing pandemic, though approximately 11,000 students who have not already submitted their meal application, are still eligible for a number of school related benefits," said Donna Pittenger, Executive Director of Katy ISD Nutrition and Food Service. “These include reduced SAT/ACT exam registration fees, discounts on home internet service, as well as discounted Katy ISD fine arts and athletic fees," added Pittenger.</p><p>Meal benefits applications for the 2021-2022 school year are available on the <a href="https://www.schoolcafe.com/katyisd" target="_blank">Katy ISD School Cafe</a>. Families must submit a new meal benefits application each year, and only one application is required per household. The application should be completed by September 30 to take full advantage of all of the benefits.</p><p>For additional information about meal benefits, visit the <a href="https://katyisdfoodservices.com/" target="_blank">Katy ISD Nutrition and Food Service website</a>. <br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Continues Legacy Parent Academy Forums with Topics That Impact Students | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1497 | Katy ISD Continues Legacy Parent Academy Forums with Topics That Impact Students | 2021-09-02T23:53:00Z | <div class="ExternalClassBAA4C287542D4790BE68DB2A8E937CDC"><p><br></p><p><img src="/parents/PublishingImages/Legacy%20Parent%20Academy%20on%20White.png" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:183px;" /><br><br></p><p>Since its inception in September 2018, the Katy Independent School District Legacy Parent Academy has equipped parents with the information and tools needed to provide additional support to their child(ren) related to topics that are currently impacting them. Informational sessions for the 2021-22 school year will include the following topics:<br></p><p> </p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:33.3333%;">Date</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:33.3333%;">Session</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:33.3333%;">Location/Time</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">September 22, 2021</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">The Ugly Truth About Vaping*</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Legacy Stadium<br> 6 – 7 p.m.</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">October 20, 2021</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Being an Upstander Against Bullying</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Legacy Stadium & Cinco Ranch High School<br> 6 – 7 p.m.</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">November 10, 2021</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Human Trafficking Awareness*</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Legacy Stadium<br> 6 – 7 p.m.</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">January 19, 2022</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Finding Balance in Our Digital World</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Legacy Stadium & Cinco Ranch High School<br> 6 – 7 p.m.</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">February 16, 2022</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Angst: Raising Awareness Around Anxiety</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p>Legacy Stadium & Cinco Ranch High School</p><p>6 – 7 p.m.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align:center;"><em>*The Ugly Truth About Vaping and Human Trafficking Awareness will be live-streamed and recorded. All sessions will be posted in English and Spanish on the Legacy Parent A</em><em>cademy webpage following each event.</em></p><p>“Legacy Parent Academy sessions are designed to focus on issues pertaining to the health and safety and emotional well-being of all learners," said Edie White, Coordinator for School Leadership and Support. “Topics are selected based on the needs expressed by parents and in response to concerns the District sees on campuses and the community," added White. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy ISD looks forward to working with local media partners to promote and cover these sessions, which can be found on the district's <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/parents/Pages/Legacy-Parent-Academy.aspx">Legacy Parent Academy website</a>. The first session “The Ugly Truth About Vaping" is on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Legacy Stadium. </p><p> </p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Announces New Location for Free COVID-19 Testing Center | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1492 | Katy ISD Announces New Location for Free COVID-19 Testing Center | 2021-08-30T19:24:51Z | <div class="ExternalClassB85D3DD2CB9344788909D329F8FD27DD"><div class="ExternalClass32A5630CF81B450EA6B5516A88D67E10" style="text-align:left;"><p><span>As part of Katy Independent School District's proactive approach to mitigating the spread of COVID-19, beginning Monday, August 30, the District will transition its FREE rapid COVID-19 Testing Center to the Gary A. Voss Project Center located within the Agricultural Sciences Facility. The testing center's address is:</span><br></p><p>Gary A. Vos Project Center</p><p>5801 Katy Hockley Cut Off Road</p><p>Katy, TX 77493</p><p>Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.</p><p>The FREE rapid COVID-19 test is for all enrolled Katy ISD students, as well as district employees and their dependents who are enrolled under the Katy ISD healthcare plan. The free test is in collaboration with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) COVID-19 Testing Project. <br></p><p>“The process is quick and simple and both students and staff will receive their results within a matter of minutes," added Lance Nauman, Director of Katy ISD Risk Management.<br></p><p>Parental/Guardian permission, as well as a reservation, is required for all students who are below 18 years of age. Permission slips will be available at the testing site and reservations should be made through the following link: <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/73375d80fa1caefc06-week" target="_blank">https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/73375d80fa1caefc06-week</a><br></p><p>Additional questions related to this program can be submitted to <a href="mailto:COVID19Responses@katyisd.org">COVID19Responses@katyisd.org</a>. </p><p style="text-align:center;"># # #<br></p><p><br></p></div></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Tops Forbes 2021 List of Best Texas Employers | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1490 | Katy ISD Tops Forbes 2021 List of Best Texas Employers | 2021-08-27T20:45:47Z | <div class="ExternalClassE2246C03C8B040FB801EF499DA701CFC"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy Independent School District has once again earned a spot in the </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Forbes List of Best Employers</em><span style="text-align:justify;"> in the state of Texas, coming in at #8. Not surprisingly, Katy ISD was also the only school district in Texas to make the Top 10 list of employers along with renowned organizations such as NASA, Dell Technologies and Southwest Airlines, to name a few. </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“From our teachers, administrators, operations and support staff, every member of the Katy ISD family strives daily to provide supportive and unparalleled learning experiences to the more than 87,000 students we serve," said Dr. Ken Gregorski, Superintendent of Schools. “They are the best staff I have ever had the privilege to work alongside. It is our employees that truly makes Katy ISD such a special place," added Gregorski.<br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-align:left;">Forbes partnered with market research company Statista to develop its third annual list of </span><em style="text-align:left;">America's Best Employers by State</em><span style="text-align:left;">. The list is divided into 51 rankings – one for each of the 50 states, plus the District of Columbia – and was compiled by surveying 80,000 Americans working for businesses with at least 500 employees. Surveys were conducted from October 2020 to June 2021 and were anonymous, allowing participants to freely share their opinions. </span></p><p>This is the third consecutive year that Katy ISD has made the list. To read the full Forbes article visit <a href="https://www.forbes.com/best-employers-by-state/#3503e3e1487a"><em>America's</em> <em>Best Employers by State for 2021</em></a><em>.</em></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Teacher School Supply "Wishes" Become a Reality | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1488 | Katy ISD Teacher School Supply "Wishes" Become a Reality | 2021-08-31T14:42:59Z | <div class="ExternalClass9EB0A7599B0740CDA41BDF58BA2FD943"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Katy Independent School District has once again partnered with Amazon to help teachers purchase some of those additional items they “wish" they could have to enhance their classroom experiences. The District is providing its teachers up to $200 each to spend through a district-funded account </span><span style="text-align:justify;">for consumable classroom supply purchases such as pens, color pencils, paper and small student incentives. </span><span style="text-align:justify;">This is in addition to the instructional supplies and materials already provided through Katy ISD campus budgets. </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“These funds are intended to assist teachers with purchasing those few extra items they would love to have in their classrooms that may further supplement a learning experience they have planned for their students," said Dr. Ken Gregorski, Superintendent of Schools. “Our educators have always gone above and beyond for our learners, especially during these past 18 months. We hope they will enjoy this opportunity to purchase some additional items for their classrooms," added Gregorski. <br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Katy Instructional Teacher Supply Budget (KITSB) is separate from campus budgets and does not affect Katy ISD's overall instructional material and supply budget. Beginning next week, teachers will be able to log into Amazon to select the items they wish to purchase. It is the expectation this initiative will help with personal out-of-pocket expenses incurred by some teachers. <br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Continues Curbside Grab and Go Meals for all Students Enrolled in Virtual Instruction | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1487 | Katy ISD Continues Curbside Grab and Go Meals for all Students Enrolled in Virtual Instruction | 2021-08-24T00:06:39Z | <div class="ExternalClass355113DCE35247CF908AF8F184133C08"><p>K<span style="text-align:justify;">aty Independent School District will continue to offer curbside Grab and Go meal students to students who have opted for virtual instruction through the Katy Virtual Academy (KVA) Grades K-6 program. Beginning tomorrow August 24, the meal sites will </span><span style="text-align:justify;text-decoration-line:underline;">only</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> operate on Tuesdays and will provide breakfast and lunch meals for the entire week of instruction. Distribution sites include:</span></p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;"><strong>School Name</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;"><strong>Hours of Operations</strong></td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p style="text-align:justify;">Morton Ranch High School</p><p style="text-align:justify;">21000 Franz Road</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy, TX 77449</p></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p style="text-align:center;"> </p><p style="text-align:center;"> </p><p style="text-align:center;">Tuesdays Only</p><p style="text-align:center;">4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><p style="text-align:justify;">Cinco Ranch High School</p><p style="text-align:justify;">23440 Cinco Ranch Boulevard</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Katy, TX 77494</p></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default"></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align:justify;"> <br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The grab and go breakfast and lunch meals are ready to heat and eat at home," said Donna Pittenger, Executive Director of Nutrition & Food Services. “There is no cost to children 18 and under who are enrolled in KVA. Students who eat meals at school are not eligible for meals at the Grab and Go locations," added Pittenger.</p><p>Identification for each child such as an ID, report card or birth certificate must be presented before receiving the meal.<br></p><p style="text-align:center;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;"> <br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Board of Trustees Approves Virtual Learning for Grades K-6 | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1482 | Katy ISD Board of Trustees Approves Virtual Learning for Grades K-6 | 2021-08-11T01:13:19Z | <div class="ExternalClassE7C12480870F403E89B53A4980B1EF0D"><p>During tonight’s Katy Independent School District Special Board Meeting Trustees approved a <strong>Katy Virtual Academy (KVA) online learning program</strong> for students enrolled in kindergarten through sixth grade. Parents can begin the online application process tomorrow, August 11 at 10 a.m. and must apply by midnight on Tuesday, August 17 to enroll in this virtual instructional model. Online instruction through KVA Grades K-6 will officially begin on Monday, August 30 and extend through Friday, October 15, 2021. <br></p><p>The KVA Grades K-6 program is being made available for parents of those students who may wish to immunize their child against COVID but do not currently have the option to do so due to minimum age requirements tied to the current iteration of the vaccine. <br></p><p>Additional information regarding this instructional model can be found on the Katy Virtual Academy K-6 webpage that will open tomorrow, August 11 at 10 a.m. <br></p><p><strong>Additional items approved during the Katy ISD August Special Board Meeting include:</strong></p><p>• <strong>COVID-19 Paid Leave for Employees</strong> – The Board approved 10 additional days of paid leave for employees who are documented COVID-19 positive and require mandatory quarantining. These days are in addition to employees’ existing leave bank.</p><p>• <strong>Employee and Student COVID-19 Testing Site</strong> – The Board approved expanding the employee testing site to include Katy ISD students.</p><p>• <strong>Intermittent School to Home Learning Mode</strong>l - The Board approved providing students who are required to isolate due to COVID-19, or any other medical condition, a learning option where they can access their assignments through the Katy ISD Learning Management System (Canvas) to stay current on classroom assignments. Intermittent School to Home is not a virtual program, such as KVA, and students cannot exceed a total of 20 cumulative days.<br></p><p><br><br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Launches Pay N' Go Tix | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1480 | Katy ISD Launches Pay N' Go Tix | 2021-08-06T20:58:43Z | <div class="ExternalClass6570BC5734E04EE4B577567B718FF5AC"><p style="text-align:center;"><span><img src="/PublishingImages/PayNGoTix%20fb.png" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:215px;" /><br></span></p><p><span style="text-align:justify;">There's now an easy way to purchase Katy Independent School District tickets for select athletic events! It's called </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Pay N' Go Tix</em><span style="text-align:justify;">. This new purchasing option provides a convenient way to buy electronic tickets online and in advance of Katy ISD events. Spectators have two options when purchasing passes to their favorite events:</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span></p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Website</strong></span>: Visit <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/">www.katyisd.org</a>. Click the <em>A+ Pay N' Go</em> icon on the upper right-hand corner of the website. Select the <em>Pay N' Go Tix</em> logo. Choose your event category, the event and then click “Book Now".</li><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>QR Code:</strong></span> Scan a QR code found across district campuses and displayed on facility signage located near the event entrance.</li></ol><p style="text-align:justify;">At this time, only junior high and high school athletic events, with the exception of varsity football, will be available for purchase via <em>Pay N' Go Tix</em>. Fine Arts will be integrated into the system in spring 2022, while it is anticipated that varsity football tickets will be available in the system by the summer semester. Varsity football and fine arts will continue to utilize their existing ticketing sales platforms until they are transitioned to <em>Pay N' Go Tix.</em></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Athletic tickets will no longer be sold at events and must be purchased online with a credit card. Save time and secure your game day and event tickets through <em>Pay N' Go Tix</em>! </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Video for Publications: <a href="https://youtu.be/H6W-QsOttyc"><em>Pay N' Go Tix</em> Video</a><br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD FFA Students Win Awards at State Convention | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1472 | Katy ISD FFA Students Win Awards at State Convention | 2021-07-12T19:29:49Z | <div class="ExternalClass24C018B572E5488DB2018E86885429FE"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">After a year of virtual gatherings and obstacles resulting from a global pandemic, Katy Independent School District FFA students ended their school year with numerous recognitions at the 93</span><sup style="text-align:justify;">rd</sup><span style="text-align:justify;"> Annual Texas FFA Convention. The convention's theme – </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Elevate</em><span style="text-align:justify;"> – encapsulated a movement that motivated Katy ISD FFA students, and others from across the Lone Star State, to use the insurmountable odds of the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to grow, learn and elevate themselves. </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“Our students have demonstrated an enduring resilience and have learned that amidst the challenges, they can overcome and grow," stated Ashlee Laird, Katy ISD CTE Instructional Specialist. “Part of that growth was making it a priority to also support their peers in achieving their goals during this difficult school year," added Laird. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The following Katy ISD students placed during the convention:<br></p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;">Student</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;">School</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;">Recognition</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;">Category</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Madailein Fitch<br></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Taylor High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">State Champion</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Agriscience Fair – Food Products & Processing Systems – Division 3</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Hailey Tucker</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Katy High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2<sup>nd</sup> Place</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Soil Stewardship Public Speaking</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Jacob Grimes</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Paetow High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2<sup>nd</sup> Place</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Junior Prepared Public Speaking</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Lauren Sapp</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Cinco Ranch High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5<sup>th</sup> Place</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Agricultural Policy Public Speaking </td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Eliza Thomas</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Tompkins High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">9<sup>th</sup> Place</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Agricultural Technology & Communication Public Speaking</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Elizabeth McFadin</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Katy High FFA</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">9<sup>th</sup> Place</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Extemporaneous Speaking</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p>Madailein Fitch will be advancing to the National FFA Convention Agricultural Science Fair in October 2021 being held in Indianapolis, IN. Additionally, Katy High School FFA Student Hailey Tucker won a $2,000 scholarship for her achievement in soil public speaking during this year's state convention. </p><p>The 93<sup>rd</sup> Annual Texas FFA Convention was held in Fort Worth, Texas last week.</p><p><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/useghl46kya6fov/AAD0UU7bBf0T7dL4Zqo0LLSZa?dl=0">Pictures of Katy ISD FFA State Winners</a> <br></p><p><br><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Cryptonite Robotics Team Wins Big at UIL State Competition | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1466 | Katy ISD Cryptonite Robotics Team Wins Big at UIL State Competition | 2021-06-30T19:05:17Z | <div class="ExternalClassF1B2F6C892F449E0B1F18BF5CBFA7CD1"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Good things come to those who wait!</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">After facing a 14-month delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cinco Ranch High School (CRHS) Robotics Team 624 CRyptonite headed to the San Antonio Alamodome to compete in the 2021 UIL Robotics State Championship.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Their hard work paid off as they returned home with not one, but three coveted recognitions that include </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Second Place University Interscholastic League (UIL) State Winner</em><span style="text-align:justify;">, </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Lone Star Division Winner</em><span style="text-align:justify;"> and </span><em style="text-align:justify;">Overall State Finalist</em><span style="text-align:justify;">.</span><span style="text-align:justify;"> </span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The students arrived energized and ready to compete. They were extremely proud to showcase the robot they designed and constructed this year," said Mike Outlaw, long-time team mentor. “The spikey green-haired students stole the show on multiple occasions and aside from winning the three prestigious recognitions they outwon 30 additional submissions and took home the <em>Best Decorated Game Ball</em>, which the students skillfully decorated with the CRyptonite hairdo," added Outlaw.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">A total of 73 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC) teams, divided into two divisions (Lone Star and Bluebonnet) participated in the annual tournament. The following summarizes the winning results for Katy ISD CRyptonite Team:</p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>UIL State Winner!</strong></span></li></ol><p style="text-align:justify;">After competing in 12 preliminary matches, across two days, the UIL rankings placed Team 624 CRyptonite in second place for the UIL State Robotics FIRST Division FRC 2021 Competition. Students received a silver UIL trophy and medals. </p><ol start="2" style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Lone Star Division Winner!</strong></span></li></ol><p style="text-align:justify;">After 12 preliminary matches, Team 624 CRyptonite came in third place in the 36 Lone Star Division and were picked by the #1 ranked Team 2417 BBQ from Dallas, TX. The team went on to compete in an eight alliance quarterfinal/semifinal/final playoffs in the Lone Star Division. After six tough playoff games, the CRyptonite members swept through as the finalist in the Lone Star Division and won the FIRST Texas Cup 2021 Lone Star Division Finalist Member recognition. The Katy ISD team received a large silver cup trophy for their hard work. </p><ol start="3" style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Overall State Finalists!</strong></span></li></ol><p style="text-align:justify;">As winners of the Lone Star Division, the Katy ISD CRyptonite Team moved on to compete against the top team of the Bluebonnet Division. It was a rigorous competition that ultimately landed the CRyptonite Robotics Team into second ranking, winning their third trophy and medals of the day. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">In addition to the CRHS CRyptonite Robotics Team, Katy ISD was also well represented at the tournament by Seven Lakes RoboSpartans and the Tompkins Steel Talons who both made the playoff portion of the Texas Cup Tournament. </p><img src="file:///C:/Users/C1660359/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.jpg" alt="" style="width:494px;margin:5px;" /><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/063021_CRHS_Cryptonite%20Team%20with%20all%20the%20trophies%20and%20metals.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:267px;" /></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Cinco Ranch High School (CRHS) Robotics Team 624 CRyptonite</em></p><p style="text-align:center;"> </p><img src="file:///C:/Users/C1660359/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.jpg" alt="" style="width:497px;margin:5px;" /><p style="text-align:center;"><em><img src="/PublishingImages/063021_CRHS%20SLHS%20OTHS_%20All%20Robotics%20Teams%20at%20State%20Championship.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:267px;" />(Robotics Teams Pictured from Left to Right:</em><em> </em><em>Seven Lakes RoboSpartans, Tompkins Steel Talons and CRHS Team 624 CRyptonite</em></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Employees Rewarded with a Pay Increase | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1465 | Katy ISD Employees Rewarded with a Pay Increase | 2021-06-29T03:00:05Z | <div class="ExternalClass0F6BADBDC36243FD91BD42415D12AC22"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">At the Regular Board meeting, Katy Independent School District Trustees made it a budget priority to ensure teachers and staff are recognized for their ongoing commitment to District students and families following a school year fraught with a pandemic, a winter freeze and many other challenges. Trustees approved a 2% pay increase to be distributed beginning in July 2021, or depending on the staff member's contract start date, with a 1% one-time lump sum payment to be provided this December. </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Pay increases are calculated based on an employee's midpoint rates of pay found on the <a href="/dept/hr/Documents/2022%20Pay%20Ranges.pdf">Katy ISD Human Resources webpage</a>. Regular part-time employees will also benefit from this increase approved tonight.<br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Announces New Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership and Support | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1462 | Katy ISD Announces New Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership and Support | 2021-06-14T21:52:39Z | <div class="ExternalClassF49EB852483C42C59C595BA44BD9DEDF"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">Today Katy Independent School District Superintendent Ken Gregorski appointed Ronnie Edwards as the District's new Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership and Support. Prior to accepting this new role, Edwards was the principal of Mayde Creek High School, a position he has held for the past five years. He will be replacing Dr. Freda Creech who is pl</span><span style="text-align:justify;">anning for retirement this summer.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“It is an honor for me to be part of a thriving school district where our goal is to ensure every student excels in a supportive academic environment, from their first day of school up to the last day of their senior year," said Ronnie Edwards, Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership and Support. “As a former principal, I can relate with the struggles and strengths of campus leaders. I look forward to working with them and staff from across the district to ensure this growing school district continues providing an A+ education," added Edwards.<br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Edwards began his career in education as an English teacher and coach at Santa Fe Independent School District in 1991. A year later, he accepted a head coaching position in Van Vleck Independent School District. Known for his passion in the classroom as well as in athletics, in 1994, Edwards decided to move closer to his hometown where he began coaching and teaching in Abilene Independent School District. But a few years later, South Texas was calling him back, this time to join Brazosport ISD as head basketball coach and English teacher. It wasn't until 1999 that Edwards joined the Katy ISD family after accepting a head basketball and physical education (PE) teacher position at Katy High School. Five years later, he accepted a position at Fort Bend Independent School District at Kempner High School as a head coach and English teacher. In 2009, Edwards moved into administration at Fort Bend ISD at Clements High School as an Assistant Principal. He remained there until 2011. That year, he accepted the Associate Principal position at William B. Travis High School in Fort Bend ISD. In 2013, he was named Principal at John Foster Dulles High School. Yet throughout his educational career, Katy ISD always held a special place in his heart. In 2016, Edwards returned to Katy ISD as Principal of Mayde Creek High School, a position he has held until today when he was appointed into his new role with the district leadership team. <br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Edwards holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with a minor in English from Tarleton State University and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston – Victoria. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/061421_Ronnie%20Edwards.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:533px;" /><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Ronnie Edwards</em><br><em> Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership and Support</em><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Board Welcomes Newly Elected Members and Announces Officers | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1450 | Katy ISD Board Welcomes Newly Elected Members and Announces Officers | 2021-05-18T01:48:49Z | <div class="ExternalClass17D85A0418BF428B85604A50414A1C51"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">At tonight's Regular Board Meeting, Katy Independent School District's newly elected Board members Dawn Champagne and Rebecca Fox took the oath of office and were officially sworn in. Champagne continues in Position 7, while Fox will serve in Position 6. Immediately following the swearing-in of these two Trustees, both assumed their roles as members of the Board for the remainder of the Closed and Regular Board meetings. </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Also, as is customary following Katy ISD Board elections, Trustees elected a new slate of officers to serve for the upcoming school year. Greg Schulte was elected as the 2021-22 president, Lance Redmon as vice president and Dawn Champagne as secretary. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Katy ISD Board of Trustees is the governing body that oversees and shapes district policies. Individuals serving as a board member are not employees of Katy ISD, yet they dedicate countless hours to lead an A+ school district.<br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Greg%20Schulte-%20KISD%20BOD%20Dec%202020%20-%2009%20web.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:560px;" /><em></em><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Greg Schulte<br></em><em>President of the Katy ISD Board of Trustees</em></p><p style="text-align:center;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/Redmon,%20Lance%20-%2009%205x7.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:560px;" /> </p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Lance Redmon<br></em><em>Vice President of the Katy ISD Board of Trustees</em></p><p style="text-align:center;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/KISD%20BOD%202018-%20049%204x5%20Champagne.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:500px;" /><em></em></p><p style="text-align:center;"><em>Dawn Champagne<br></em><em>Secretary of the Katy ISD Board of Trustees</em></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Announces its 2021 Valedictorians and Salutatorians | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1447 | Katy ISD Announces its 2021 Valedictorians and Salutatorians | 2021-05-10T18:34:30Z | <div class="ExternalClassE4A5A07A3237446D8056E1E3B12EDBFA"><p>Katy ISD is proud to announce the top two students from each high school who have ranked highest academically in their respective graduating classes. These students have worked extremely hard from the very first day of their ninth-grade year until the last day of their senior year. Many of them are now moving on to renowned colleges and universities throughout the nation. The 2020-2021 valedictorians and salutatorians are:<br></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Cinco Ranch High School:</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Natalie Wang – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Biology/PreMed</li><li>GPA: 4.8281</li></ul><li>Zara Shipchandler – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Computer Science</li><li>GPA: 4.8</li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Katy High School:</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Layne Smith – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Biology with an emphasis on Epidemiology</li><li>GPA: 4.8148</li></ul><li>Chelsea Crow – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Chelsea will be pursuing volunteer opportunities abroad after graduating and will teach Spanish literacy for a year.</li><li>Major: N/A</li><li>GPA: 4.8</li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Mayde Creek High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Min Ko Ko – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Yale University</li><li>Major: Political Science</li><li>GPA: 4.8143</li></ul><li>Mohammad Zaidi – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Columbia University</li><li>Major: Sociology</li><li>GPA: 4.8</li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Morton Ranch High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Jennie Le – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Rice University</li><li>Major: Exercise Science</li><li>GPA: 4.7037</li></ul><li>Walter Pham – Salutatorian (photo unavailable)</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas</li><li>Major: Biology</li><li>GPA: 4.7<br></li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Paetow High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>John Pershing Abney – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Brown University</li><li>Major: Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering</li><li>GPA: 4.7778</li></ul><li>Camila Silva – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Chicago</li><li>Major: Astrophysics & Astronomy</li><li>GPA: 4.75</li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Seven Lakes High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Sameer Gupta – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Computer Science (Turing Honors Program)</li><li>GPA: 4.9079</li></ul><li>Surya Chokkar – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Computer Science and Business Honors Program</li><li>GPA: 4.9079</li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Taylor High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Ecaterina Sturzu – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Computer Science</li><li>GPA: 4.8406</li></ul><li>Jeongwook Yun – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: University of Texas at Austin</li><li>Major: Biomedical Engineering</li><li>GPA: 4.8302 </li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Tompkins High School</strong></span></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Sahil Adhawade – Valedictorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Stanford University</li><li>Major: Computer Science with a Concentration in Bio-Computation</li><li>GPA: 4.9048</li></ul><li>Pranav Narayanan – Salutatorian</li><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>College/University: Rice University</li><li>Major: Biosciences</li><li>GPA: 4.85333<br></li></ul></ul><p style="text-align:justify;">Congratulations to all of these outstanding students! </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gl936cV5i91q5znhWT4QYvGyelQ_7MgH?usp=sharing">Pictures of the 2020-21 Valedictorians and Salutatorians</a> <br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Named 2021 Best Communities for Music Education | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1433 | Katy ISD Named 2021 Best Communities for Music Education | 2021-04-30T18:45:00Z | <div class="ExternalClassC08D7665F5944FFE8900C3E6F0A25EC9"><p><span style="text-align:justify;">For the past 17 years, Katy Independent School District has received the “Best Communities for Music Education" designation from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for the District's outstanding commitment to music education</span><span style="text-align:justify;">. </span><span style="text-align:justify;">Of NAMM's 22 years of announcing the recognition, the District has been awarded the designation 19 times total. </span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The Best Communities for Music Education designation is presented to districts that demonstrate outstanding efforts by school communities in supporting music education as part of the school district's core curriculum. This year, NAMM Foundation recognized 686 school districts and 80 individual schools. <br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The benefits of music education include brain development, social-emotional learning, relationship development, team building and learning a lifelong skill," said Katy ISD Executive Director of Fine Arts Damon Archer. “Our Katy ISD fine arts educators continually demonstrate outstanding achievement in their efforts to provide quality music experiences and training for all of our students," added Archer. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">To qualify for the Best Communities designation, Katy ISD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="/PublishingImages/2021%20NAMM%20Best%20Commuinities%20for%20Music%20Education.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:400px;" /><br></p><p><br></p></div> | | |
| Katy ISD Safety Protocols - March 2 Update | https://www.katyisd.org/Lists/latestnews/DispForm.aspx?ID=1419 | Katy ISD Safety Protocols - March 2 Update | 2021-03-03T20:03:02Z | <div class="ExternalClass27EA7D85C388466BAB49D752477F8E57"><p>Today Governor Abbott issued an Executive Order pertaining to the opening of Texas, which becomes effective on March 10, 2021. Katy ISD is in the process of reviewing the order and awaiting updated public health guidance from the Texas Education Agency.<br></p><p>At this time Katy ISD continues to follow TEA's guidance concerning school COVID-19 safety practices, which includes the wearing of masks, frequent hand washing, and social distancing to mitigate spread and protect the health and safety of students and staff. <br></p><p>We appreciate our parents and employees' questions and concerns, and encourage you to email inquiries to <a href="mailto:COVID19responses@katyisd.org">COVID19responses@katyisd.org</a> or call (281) 396-7499. A member of the Katy ISD team will be in contact with you shortly. <br></p><p>Thank you for your continued patience and support as we navigate the evolving guidance and updates concerning COVID-19.<br></p><p>Katy ISD<br></p></div> | | |