Katy ISD plans for Feb. 22 return to school

Katy ISD officials are expecting all campuses to be up and running for a return to school Feb. 22 after the extended closure caused by the winter storm.

Throughout the week, the district's operations and technology teams have been assessing all water-, freeze- and wind-related damages at campuses and facilities that were caused by the storm, KISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski said in a video released Feb. 19. So far, he said, the teams have reported that about 75% of campuses suffered some form of damage.

"The deep freeze throughout our area this week led to burst pipes, eroding of sheet rock and carpet and floor water damage in some of our facilities," Gregorski said in the video. "All of these issues are currently being worked on, and that work will continue throughout the weekend so that our students and staff can safely return to campuses on Monday."

As far as academics, teachers now have through Feb. 24 to work with students on any pending fourth-six-weeks assignments, Gregorski said. In addition, the minimum number of required assignments for that grading period will be waived.

Starting Feb. 19, weather permitting, some indoor sports, such as playoff basketball teams, will continue with practice and games. Starting Feb. 20, outdoor sports, such as baseball, soccer, softball and track, will also be allowed to resume outdoor practices on a voluntary basis, Gregorski said.

Rescheduled competitions other than basketball playoffs are pending, Gregorski said. Coaches will be in direct contact with their teams regarding practices, competitions and schedules.

Additionally, the UIL Choir Solo and Ensemble event that had been scheduled for Feb. 20 has been postponed to March 6, and KISD’s annual FFA Livestock Show has been rescheduled from Feb. 23 to Feb. 27.

Because weather conditions are fluid, any changes will be communicated to the public as soon as information is available, Gregorski said.

Gregorski thanked families for their support and understanding throughout the challenging week.

"We’re eager to see our students back to learning and on campuses next week," he said.