Katy ISD Celebrates 30 Years of KEYS Mentoring Program at Annual Kickoff Event
In a heartfelt celebration of service, growth, and connection, Katy Independent School District honored three decades of life-changing mentorship at the KEYS Kickoff and 30th Anniversary Celebration on Friday, September 12.
Held at the Merrell Center, the event gathered nearly 275 participants—ranging from new mentors to longtime champions—marking a milestone moment for the Keep Encouraging Youth toward Success (KEYS) Mentoring Program, a signature initiative under Katy ISD’s Partners in Education.
“For decades, KEYS has connected caring adults with Katy ISD students who need an extra champion,” said Karen Lewis, Executive Director of Community Partnerships at Katy ISD. “As we celebrate 30 years of mentoring, we’re inspired by the thousands of relationships that have already changed lives.”
The event served both as a celebration and a training opportunity. Mentors engaged in breakout sessions led by subject matter experts, including a mentor roundtable where seasoned volunteers and newcomers swapped personal stories, offered guidance, and shared in the impact they’ve witnessed.
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A Legacy of Student Transformation
Launched in 1995, the KEYS Mentoring Program matches students in need with caring adults for one hour each week during the school year. These weekly meetings—held on campus, during school hours—are focused not on tutoring, but on building trust, consistency, and emotional support.
According to Katy ISD data, the program has a proven track record of success:
- 79% of KEYS students decreased absences
- 88% decreased disciplinary referrals
- 88% showed improved grades
Mentors are placed with students through KEYS liaisons on each campus, and every match is carefully supervised to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
“Witnessing the incredible impact of KEYS mentoring on children firsthand has been truly inspiring,” said Dr. Andrew Lowry, Principal of WoodCreek Junior High School. “From simply brightening a child’s day to completely altering the course of their life, the influence of mentoring knows no bounds”.
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How Mentoring Builds Confidence and Connection for Both Sides
Mentoring offers profound benefits for both mentees and mentors, backed by decades of research. According to MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, young people who have a mentor are 55% more likely to enroll in college, 78% more likely to volunteer regularly, and 46% more likely to hold leadership positions.
In turn, mentors also report positive outcomes. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that people who serve as mentors experience greater job satisfaction, enhanced interpersonal skills, and a stronger sense of purpose and connection to their community. The mentoring relationship becomes a two-way exchange, fostering growth, empathy, and confidence for everyone involved.
Who Can Be a KEYS Mentor?
Mentors come from all walks of life—retirees, professionals, community members, and even Katy ISD employees. What they share is a heart for youth and a willingness to invest time.
To become a KEYS mentor, individuals must:
- Complete an application and background check
- Register through Katy ISD’s Raptor volunteer system
- Attend KEYS 101 training
- Commit to one hour per week for one school year
- Adhere to clear program expectations regarding conduct, communication, and confidentiality
Each KEYS mentoring relationship is monitored and supported by the campus liaison, ensuring the mentor has guidance and the student has stability.
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Building Toward the Future
As KEYS enters its fourth decade, the District is actively inviting new mentors to step forward.
“As we look to the future, we know there are countless young people who still need that connection,” said Lewis. “We’re actively recruiting mentors who are ready to make a difference.”
Those interested in becoming a KEYS mentor can apply at tinyurl.com/keysap, or learn more by visiting the Katy ISD Partners in Education page at katyisd.org/partners-in-education.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more uplifting stories from Katy ISD and ways to get involved in the Katy community.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
