At its January 20 regular board meeting, he Katy ISD Board of Trustees approved an amendment to the 2026–27 instructional calendar and adopted the 2027–28 instructional calendar, both of which include the addition of a fall break in October.

These actions followed extensive community feedback, which demonstrated strong support for a fall break.

Key dates for the 2026-27 school year

· First day of school: August 12, 2026

· Fall break: Oct. 9 – 13, 2026

· Staff and student holiday: Feb. 15, 2027

· Spring break: March 8 – 12, 2027

· Last day of school: Thursday, May 26, 2027

· Early graduation option for seniors removed


Key dates for the 2027-28 school year

· First day of school: Aug. 11, 2027

· Spring break: March 13 – 17, 2028

· Fall break: Oct. 8 – 12, 2027

· Last day of school: May 24, 2028


Katy ISD instructional calendars meet all state requirements outlined in Board Policies EB(LEGAL) and EB(LOCAL), which mandate at least 75,600 operational minutes, the district said in a subsequent press release. Elementary and junior high campuses operate for 437 minutes per day, while high school campuses operate for 447 minutes per day.

Last month, the district surveyed parents, students and staff to gather feedback on calendar options. Survey results indicated a clear preference for including a fall break, and the Board considered that input during its decision-making process.

“Katy ISD thanks the thousands of families and staff members who participated in the survey and helped shape the district’s instructional calendars,” said a statement from the district following the meeting.

The board extended special recognition to Morton Ranch High School as part of its ongoing plan to celebrate each high school campus. The board also received a detailed music program report, honored volunteers and school staff, and heard public comments on nutrition, student safety, and employee benefits.

Public speakers included district employees who spoke on issues with the district’s health plan coverage and costs, and on “living wages” for paraprofessionals.

City of Katy Mayor Dusty Thiele, along with Mayor Pro Tem Chris Harris and city councilmembers Janet Corte, Rory Robertson, and Gina Hicks presented a proclamation in honor of School Board Recognition Month.