Online Safety

How We Help Keep Students Safe Online 

Protecting student information and promoting a safe digital learning environment are top priorities for Katy ISD. To support these goals, the district uses secure monitoring and content filtering tools for student internet use, email accounts, and online files. 

Monitoring for Safety and Security 

Our systems automatically scan student activity for potential risks such as inappropriate content, bullying, threats, and the accidental sharing of sensitive information (for example, personal data or login credentials). The purpose of this monitoring is to protect students, prevent data breaches, and maintain a safe learning environment. 

When a potential concern is identified, designated and trained staff review the alert to determine whether follow-up is needed. Access to this information is limited and handled in accordance with student privacy laws and District policies. Katy ISD is committed to balancing student privacy with student safety. 

These monitoring practices help us: 

• Protecting students from online harm 
• Reduce the risk of sharing sensitive personal information 
• Detect potential cybersecurity threats 
• Maintain a secure digital learning environment 

Internet Content Filtering 

To comply with federal and state requirements and to further support online safety, Katy ISD uses an internet content filtering system for all students and staff. 

Internet access is filtered based on user roles, such as staff, students at different grade levels, and other designated groups. This helps ensure that online content is appropriate for each age group and educational purpose. 

The District’s filtering system includes multiple safeguards: 

• Websites are filtered by category to block inappropriate content 
• Specific websites may be blocked or unblocked when approved for instructional or operational needs 
• Searches containing certain restricted words may be blocked, even if the website is generally allowed 
• Google SafeSearch is enabled to help limit inappropriate images and videos 

Because no filtering system is perfect, Katy ISD also emphasizes responsible digital behavior. Students receive digital citizenship instruction throughout the year, and staff supervise student internet use during instructional time. 

If a website is incorrectly blocked or allowed, staff and students may submit a request for review, so corrections can be made.