Ever wondered what makes Katy Independent School District (KISD) stand out? Established in 1919, KISD has grown into one of Texas's largest and most diverse school districts. Spanning 181 square miles, it serves over 94,000 students across more than 70 campuses. With a student-teacher ratio of 15.83, KISD ensures personalized attention for each learner. The district boasts a robust Career and Technical Education program, high ACT and SAT scores, and award-winning fine arts and athletic programs. Community involvement is strong, with the largest volunteer program in Texas. KISD's commitment to academic excellence and holistic education makes it a model for schools nationwide.
Key Takeaways:
- Katy Independent School District (KISD) covers 181 square miles and has over 94,000 students. It offers diverse educational programs, high academic standards, and top-notch facilities to support student success.
- KISD has a rich history dating back over a century, with a commitment to academic excellence. It values community involvement, offers diverse programs, and prioritizes student well-being.
Location and Size
Katy Independent School District (KISD) is a significant educational institution in Texas, known for its extensive coverage and diverse student body.
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Location and Coverage: KISD spans approximately 181 square miles, covering parts of suburban and semi-rural areas in the Houston metropolitan region, including Katy, Houston, and parts of unincorporated Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller counties.
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Enrollment: As of 2024, KISD has over 94,000 students, making it one of the largest school districts in Texas.
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Number of Campuses: The district operates over 70 campuses, including 50 elementary schools, 16 junior high schools, and 10 high schools.
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Student Diversity: The student population is highly diverse, with Hispanic/Latino students making up 39%, White students 31%, Asian students 18%, African American students 10%, and Other students 2%.
Historical Background
KISD has a rich history that dates back over a century, reflecting its long-standing commitment to education.
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Established: KISD was established on February 25, 1919.
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Superintendent: The current superintendent of KISD is Kenneth Gregorski.
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Budget: The district's budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year was $1.108 billion.
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Grades Offered: KISD offers education from Pre-K to 12th grade.
Schools and Staff
The district's success is largely due to its dedicated staff and well-structured schools.
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Schools and Staff: The district has 74 schools and employs over 10,000 professionals, including teachers, administrators, and support staff.
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Student-Teacher Ratio: The student-teacher ratio in KISD is 15.83, indicating a relatively low student-to-teacher ratio.
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Community Involvement: KISD has the largest volunteer program in Texas, reflecting strong community support and involvement.
Academic Excellence
KISD is known for its high academic standards and student achievements.
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Academic Excellence: In 2022, KISD was given a grade of "A" by the Texas Education Agency, indicating high academic standards.
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Enrollment Growth: The district has seen an enrollment growth of over 2,000 new students in recent years.
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ACT and SAT Scores: Katy ISD students have consistently shown high performance on ACT and SAT tests. In 2021-2022, their average ACT score was 25.6, which is 6.1 points above the state average. The average SAT score for Katy ISD students exceeded both state and national averages across all major ethnic groups.
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Career and Technical Education (CTE): KISD has emphasized advanced academics and CTE courses to improve student performance. The participation rate in CTE programs has been steadily increasing, with 66% of students participating in CTE courses in 2022-2023.
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Post-Secondary Decisions: The Class of 2023 from Katy ISD attended top universities such as Baylor University, Blinn College, and Louisiana State University, among others.
Extracurricular Activities
KISD offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring students have opportunities to explore their interests.
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Athletic Programs: KISD is renowned for its athletic programs, particularly in football, where several teams have won state championships. Other sports offerings include basketball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, and swimming.
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Fine Arts Programs: The district has award-winning fine arts programs in music, theater, and visual arts. Its marching bands, orchestras, and choir groups regularly achieve state and national recognition.
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Extracurricular Activities: Students can participate in various clubs and organizations, ranging from academic societies like the National Honor Society to special interest groups such as robotics, debate, and environmental clubs.
Facilities and Infrastructure
KISD ensures that its facilities are top-notch to support both academic and extracurricular activities.
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Facilities and Infrastructure: KISD operates state-of-the-art facilities that support both academics and extracurricular activities. Recent expansions include Jordan High School and McElwain Elementary, reflecting the district’s commitment to accommodating growth.
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Athletic Complexes: The district has iconic venues like the Leonard Merrell Center and Legacy Stadium that host sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings.
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Technology Integration: KISD integrates advanced technology into classrooms, providing students with tools like Chromebooks, interactive whiteboards, and online learning platforms. The district has a robust technology infrastructure to support digital learning and innovation.
Teacher and Staff Excellence
The district's success is attributed to its dedicated and highly qualified educators and staff.
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Teacher and Staff Excellence: The district’s success is attributed to its dedicated and highly qualified educators and staff. KISD employs over 10,000 professionals, including teachers, administrators, and support staff.
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Professional Development: The district invests in continuous professional development for its teachers, ensuring they stay updated on the latest educational strategies and technologies.
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Teacher Recognition: KISD recognizes its teachers through various programs, highlighting their dedication and excellence in education.
Community and Accountability
KISD values transparency and community involvement, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged.
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Community-Based Accountability Report: The district publishes a Community-Based Accountability Report, which provides detailed information on student performance, enrollment trends, and other key metrics. This report highlights the district's commitment to transparency and accountability.
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Enrollment Figures: As of the latest realignment, Cinco Ranch had the highest enrollment numbers in the district with 3,790 students, followed closely by Paetow with 3,746 students. Seven Lakes had 3,591 students, and Jordan had 3,133 students.
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New School Openings: The district is preparing to open a new school, Katy Freeman, which will start operations in the next school year with an enrollment figure of 861.84 students.
Diverse Educational Programs
KISD offers a variety of programs to cater to different learning styles and interests.
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Extracurricular Participation: The district encourages participation in extracurricular activities to enhance social skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities among students. These activities include sports teams, creative arts initiatives, and various clubs focused on diverse interests.
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Academic Programs: KISD offers a variety of academic programs tailored to different learning styles. From Advanced Placement courses to International Baccalaureate options, students have ample opportunities for advanced studies. The district also emphasizes STEM education to prepare students for future careers in science and technology.
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Dual Language Immersion: KISD offers specialized programs like Dual Language Immersion, which helps foster bilingualism from an early age. This program is part of the district’s commitment to providing diverse educational opportunities.
Student Support and Well-being
KISD prioritizes the well-being of its students, offering various support programs.
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Support Programs: The district prioritizes student well-being with various support programs. Schools in the district often foster a sense of community through engaging events and parent involvement initiatives.
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Challenges and Opportunities: While KISD faces challenges such as overcrowded classrooms in some schools due to rapid growth, it also has opportunities to expand facilities and integrate innovative technology into classrooms. The district aims to strengthen partnerships with local organizations to enhance educational and extracurricular activities.
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Future Plans: KISD has ambitious plans to enhance its educational environment. The district aims to expand facilities, ensure they meet the growing needs of a diverse student population, and integrate advanced technology into classrooms. Additionally, KISD is committed to developing new programs that support mental health and well-being among students.
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Mental Health Initiatives: Recognizing the importance of emotional resilience, KISD is focused on developing initiatives that support mental health and well-being among students. This includes counseling services and wellness activities aimed at fostering a supportive learning environment.
Community Engagement
KISD values strong partnerships with the community to enhance the educational experience.
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Community Involvement: Community involvement remains a priority for KISD. The district intends to strengthen partnerships with local organizations, creating opportunities for collaboration in education and extracurricular areas. This approach ensures that the educational experience is holistic and inclusive.
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Holistic Education: KISD’s commitment to holistic education ensures that every student’s experience is enriching both academically and socially. The district places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities that help students develop leadership, teamwork, and creative skills.
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Parent Involvement: Schools in the district often foster a sense of community through engaging events and parent involvement initiatives. This collaborative approach helps in creating a supportive learning environment where parents and teachers work together for student success.
Recognition and Legacy
KISD's achievements and legacy reflect its commitment to quality education.
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Educational Rankings: KISD consistently ranks among the top school districts in Texas for its exceptional educational programs. The district has received multiple accolades from state and national organizations for its academic excellence and innovative teaching strategies.
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Legacy and Impact: The Katy Independent School District has built an enduring legacy that reflects not just an educational institution but also a vibrant part of Katy’s cultural fabric. Its commitment to quality education continues to shape its mission and vision, ensuring that every child in its community receives a high-quality learning experience.
Katy ISD: A Legacy of Excellence
Katy Independent School District stands out as a beacon of educational excellence. Covering 181 square miles, it serves over 94,000 students across 70+ campuses. Established in 1919, KISD has grown into one of Texas's largest and most diverse districts. With a student-teacher ratio of 15.83, it ensures personalized attention. The district's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its "A" grade from the Texas Education Agency and impressive ACT/SAT scores. Beyond academics, KISD offers robust athletic and fine arts programs, fostering well-rounded development. Community involvement and advanced technology integration further enhance the learning experience. As KISD continues to expand, it remains dedicated to providing top-notch education and support for every student. This legacy of excellence ensures that Katy ISD will keep shaping bright futures for years to come.
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