Nine KISD educators were honored as Mentors of the Year  during a March 9 event.

The mentors were recognized by Ties & Tiaras for their participation in the district’s Keep Encouraging Youth toward Success (KEYS) program.

KEYS scholarship sponsors also were recognized for their contributions to the program.

According to Katy ISD, the KEYS Scholarship Fund has awarded more than $300,000 to graduating KEYS seniors since its inception in 2006.

The program matches an adult with a student for up to one hour a week with the intent of building relationships rather than tutoring. The group honored at the March event has mentored a total of 35 students.

Volunteers serve at each KISD campus at all grade levels.

The program also matches coaches who help students prepare for the Houston Half Marathon.