KISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski officially welcomed nearly 14,000 teachers and staff back for the 2026-2027 school year on August 7, encouraging teachers and staff to embrace the district's theme, "Excellence in Action," while providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 95,000 students.

"This school year's theme is 'Excellence in Action.' I love that sentiment because excellence is not something we simply talk about. It's something we do," Gregorski said. "Excellence isn't reserved for special occasions. It's found in ordinary people doing extraordinary work every single day."

Gregorski thanked employees for the countless ways they support students and families while celebrating another year of district success. He highlighted Katy ISD's recognition as the number one school district in the Houston area, its 23rd consecutive Superior Financial Integrity Rating from the State of Texas and student achievement that surpassed state averages in 18 STAAR and End-of-Course assessments. He also applauded the district's multiple state championships and national honors in academics, fine arts, athletics and Career and Technical Education.

As employees prepare to welcome students back on Aug. 12, Gregorski outlined the district’s priorities for the 2026-2027 school year, including:

1. School safety

• Strengthening campus safety through expanded police and armed security personnel, wearable panic alert badges, enhanced security measures and ongoing employee training.

• Reinforcing that every employee plays an important role in maintaining safe, secure and supportive learning environments.

2. Teaching and learning

• Launching the district's Responsible Artificial Intelligence Framework to ensure AI supports instruction while keeping teachers at the center of learning.

• Continuing to enhance technology intentionally to bolster learning and preserve high-quality classroom instruction.

3. Career & Technical Education

• Expanding workforce-ready opportunities through new Career and Technical Education pathways, including Underground Utility Location, Water Operations and Real Estate Licensing.

• Preparing more students with industry-recognized certifications and real-world experiences that lead to high-demand careers.


4. Innovative learning opportunities

• Expanding virtual learning opportunities and the launch of Legacy Virtual High School.

• Strengthening Raines Academy and other Innovative Pathways programs that provide flexible options for student success.

5. Enrollment and family choice

• Launching High School Limited Open Enrollment to provide eligible students in surrounding communities access to select Katy ISD high schools.

• Expanding the Remain-in-Place Transfer option to provide greater stability for students whose families relocate after having already established their educational path in Katy ISD schools.

• Adapting to changing enrollment trends while preserving educational excellence and strategically managing campus capacity.

6. Supporting employees

• Investing in employees through the Board-approved compensation plan, expanded Teacher Incentive Allotment opportunities and leadership development programs.

7. Facilities and growth

• Strategically investing in facilities, including preparations for Elementary #49 and supporting growth across the district’s northwest quadrant.

Gregorski concluded by encouraging employees to continue sharing the stories that make Katy ISD exceptional and to embrace opportunities to positively impact students each day.

"Every interaction matters,” Gregorski said. “Every lesson matters. Every relationship matters. When each of us commits to Excellence in Action, there is no limit to what our students, our schools and our district can achieve."