Katy ISD’s FFA Best Buddies Special Rodeo Fosters Inclusion and Community Spirit
Despite the overcast skies and rain outside, the atmosphere inside the Gerald D. Young Agricultural Sciences Center was nothing but bright smiles and boundless enthusiasm as Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) hosted its annual Best Buddies Special Rodeo. Held as part of the district’s highly anticipated Katy ISD FFA Livestock Show, the Special Rodeo is more than just a beloved event—it is a reflection of Katy ISD community's commitment to inclusion, community engagement, and fostering meaningful relationships among students of all abilities.
The Special Rodeo pairs FFA student volunteers, known as “Best Buddies,” with students with special needs, ensuring a supportive and welcoming environment where every participant can enjoy adapted rodeo events. These activities, tailored to each student’s abilities, create a sense of achievement and joy while strengthening the bonds between students and their peers.
“Our Special Rodeo is a cherished part of our annual livestock show because it truly embodies the community spirit we have here in Katy,” said Jeannie Knierim, director of Career & Technical Education (CTE) at Katy ISD. “The event is always full of smiles and laughter, and our students enjoy forging new friendships and making lasting memories with their ‘Best Buddies.’”
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Promoting Inclusion and Leadership
The Best Buddies Special Rodeo highlights the importance of inclusion, providing students with special needs an opportunity to participate in a traditional Texas rodeo experience while being supported by their peers. Tailored experiences are essential for special needs students because they provide a supportive environment that accommodates sensory sensitivities and individual abilities, ensuring they can fully engage and enjoy events like rodeos without becoming overwhelmed by the sounds and crowds.
Katy ISD has a longstanding tradition of supporting students with diverse learning needs. As of April 2022, the district reported an enrollment of over 90,500 students, with approximately 12,217—or 13.5%—participating in special education programs. With a growing emphasis on inclusive programming, events like the Special Rodeo contribute to Katy ISD's focus on diversity and student success.
(Source: Katy ISD)A Community Tradition That Keeps Growing
The Special Rodeo is just one highlight of the larger Katy ISD FFA Livestock Show, which continues throughout the week with events including the floral and horticulture competitions on Wednesday, as well as several animal shows. The rodeo and livestock show serve as a vital link between Katy’s rich agricultural history and its thriving modern community, reinforcing values of service, dedication, and teamwork among students.
Through the continued support of Katy ISD, its students, and the broader community, the Best Buddies Special Rodeo remains a heartwarming example of inclusion in action. Events like this not only enrich the lives of special needs students but also create a culture of acceptance and leadership that resonates throughout Katy ISD and beyond.
The Katy Rodeo and Livestock Show is happening this week. Learn more about the Katy ISD FFA Livestock Show here and don't miss this longstanding tradition.
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.
