Katy ISD bond committee considers technology, security improvements
18 Apr 2023
By: Daniel Weeks - Community Impact
At its third meeting, the Katy ISD Community Bond Advisory Committee focused on technology in the classroom and campus security improvements for a prospective November bond package.
The committee heard presentations on the benefits of a one-to-one student to device ratio in classrooms and discussed updated campus security standards at an April 12 meeting.
A press release states a one-to-one student-device ratio would ensure students have access to necessary classroom resources. Myriam Morales, special education team leader at McRoberts Elementary, said campus officials noticed a positive impact after improving device access for students.
“The transition was seamless from planned paper to online classroom activities, lessons and assessments. The loss of instructional time also decreased substantially,” Morales said.
In regards to safety improvements, the release indicated security fencing, systems management, vestibule and security camera upgrades are high priority items.
The Texas Education Agency previously released requirements for school districts to improve school security after the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. Since then, other districts have dedicated bond funds to further bolster security on campuses.
“Bond funds would allow Katy ISD to continue to meet and exceed TEA’s standards,” the release states.
The committee is expected to take a final vote on proposed projects for the bond April 18, according to the release.
The previous bond issued by the district was a $676.2 million bond in 2021. It consisted of technology and security improvements as well as campus renovations, a new natatorium and more.