Katy ISD Celebrates Nine Campuses Named CREST Award Winners for Counseling Excellence
In a powerful affirmation of the importance of school-based mental health and academic support, nine Katy Independent School District campuses have been recognized with the 2025-2026 CREST (Counselors Reinforcing Excellence for Students in Texas) Award by the Texas Counseling Association.
The honor spotlights campuses whose counseling programs go above and beyond in helping students navigate both academic challenges and personal growth. This year’s award-winning Katy ISD campuses include Bear Creek, Bryant, Creech, Faldyn, Jenks, Katy, and Morton Ranch Elementary Schools, as well as Morton Ranch and West Memorial Junior High Schools.
“Our counselors work tirelessly to ensure students feel seen, supported and empowered,” said Marisa Adams, Coordinator of Campus Student Support for Katy ISD. “This recognition celebrates their dedication to creating safe, nurturing environments where students can thrive. We are incredibly proud of their work and the positive impact they make each day.”
A Comprehensive Commitment to Student Success
CREST Awards are presented annually to school counseling programs that demonstrate excellence across several core areas, including curriculum delivery, community collaboration, and proactive student engagement. To receive the honor, campuses must show measurable outcomes and a clear commitment to student achievement and well-being.
Katy ISD’s counseling teams serve over 95,000 students across the district, offering essential services such as academic planning, emotional and mental health support, college and career readiness, and conflict resolution.
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This districtwide dedication to whole-child development comes at a time when student mental health is more important than ever. According to the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), effective school counseling programs have been linked to improved attendance, reduced disciplinary actions, and better academic performance. ASCA also cites that students with access to comprehensive counseling services are more likely to report feeling connected, supported, and motivated to succeed.
Why Counseling Support Matters
In recent years, both national and local education leaders have emphasized the critical role school counselors play in nurturing mental wellness among young people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that up to one in five children experience a mental health disorder in a given year, and schools are often the first line of defense in identifying and addressing these challenges. With well-trained school counselors in place, students are more likely to receive timely help and long-term support.
By earning nine CREST Awards this year, Katy ISD schools are not only meeting statewide benchmarks—they're setting an example for how districts can prioritize student well-being through structured, compassionate support systems.
A Districtwide Celebration of Excellence
The CREST recognition brings deserved attention to the behind-the-scenes dedication of Katy ISD’s counseling staff, who work in partnership with teachers, administrators, families, and the broader community to make sure every student is empowered to succeed—academically, emotionally, and socially.
As Katy continues to grow, its award-winning counseling programs serve as a reminder that caring adults and comprehensive support systems are at the heart of every thriving school.
For more information about CREST or to view the full list of 2025-2026 award-winning schools statewide, visit the Texas School Counselor Association website.
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.
