Katy ISD Superintendent Welcomes Over 14,000 Educators and Staff to 2025-26 School Year with Message of 'United in Purpose'
As the first day of school approaches for nearly 97,000 Katy ISD students, more than 14,000 teachers, administrators, and support staff officially kicked off the 2025-2026 academic year this morning with a virtual welcome from Superintendent Dr. Ken Gregorski.
The district’s theme this year, “United in Purpose,” served as the foundation for Dr. Gregorski’s remarks, which celebrated the district’s academic successes, outlined strategic innovations, and reaffirmed the vital role every employee plays — from the classroom to the cafeteria to the transportation yard.
“Whether you're in the classroom, on a campus, driving a bus, preparing meals or supporting from a department — your role matters,” Gregorski told employees. “Katy ISD’s continued excellence is a direct reflection of your dedication.”
Celebrating Academic Excellence
In Spring 2025, Katy ISD students exceeded state averages on the STAAR by wide margins — 18 points higher in Math, 17 in Reading, 19 in Science, and 20 in Social Studies. Graduating seniors earned more than $10.1 million in scholarships, while the district maintained its national recognition as a Top Music Education Community.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) also reached new heights, with over 32,000 students enrolled in programs and 45 percent of seniors graduating with at least one industry certification.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Innovation and Strategic Growth
Looking to the future, Dr. Gregorski introduced several major initiatives, including Katy ISD Innovative Pathways, which will launch in Fall 2026 pending TEA approval. The program aims to expand online and hybrid learning options, including the new Legacy Virtual High School, to students across Texas.
Other upcoming advancements include a “Bring Your Own Laptop” pilot at Taylor High School, the introduction of an A+ Virtual Environment to streamline access to learning tools, and the rollout of the Balanced Assessment Framework to reduce unnecessary local testing.
Legislative Wins and Staff Compensation
Following a productive legislative session, Katy ISD secured new state funding for safety, special education, CTE, and pay increases. The Board-approved compensation plan includes $5,000 state-funded raises for experienced teachers, $2,500 locally funded stipends for first- and second-year teachers, and 3 percent midpoint increases for non-instructional employees, administrators, and support staff.
Commitment to Safety
Katy ISD has continued to invest in safety measures that exceed state standards, from upgraded fencing and new FlipLok door devices at elementary schools to the piloting of Raptor Badge silent alerts. Armed officers remain stationed at all secondary campuses, with security guards at elementary schools. Last year alone, the district’s SpeakUp app received more than 5,000 tips that helped prevent potential incidents.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Meeting the Needs of a Growing Community
As the second fastest-growing district in Texas, Katy ISD expects 1,200 new students this year. To keep pace, the district will open Boudny Elementary and Cross Elementary this fall, along with the new North Transportation Center. The Merchants Way Campus expansion — housing the BLC and 18+ Program — is set for Spring 2026, with additional campuses planned through 2028.
“Every lesson you teach, every student you support, every role you play — you are part of something greater,” Gregorski said in closing. “Together, we are united in purpose, and that makes all the difference.”
As the community counts down to the first day of classes, Dr. Gregorski’s message served not only as a rallying call for staff but also as a reminder to Katy residents of the district’s commitment to educational excellence, safety, and innovation.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates throughout the school year, including events, campus highlights, student achievements and community news from Katy ISD.
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.
