Katy Magazine News - Katy, TX
September 1, 2017
By Katrina Katsarelis and Ashley Lancaster
In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Katy has been bombarded with devastating images of flooded homes, unrecognizable streets, and destruction all around us. But in the midst of it all, we all saw little glimpses of hope in the outstanding people around us who are making it all a little bit better. Here are a few nuggets of good news that we hope brightens your day just a little.
1. Students, teachers, parents, and administrators jumped in to help each other time and time and time again.
The Katy community of parents, staff, students, and teachers, have spent countless hours volunteering and caring for flood victims, evacuees and first responders. Even Katy ISD bus drivers jumped on school buses to lead rescue efforts—resulting in hundreds of people being saved from flooded areas. Administrators prepared schools for state and federal emergency agencies needing staging areas. Local churches, organizations, and businesses generously donated time and resources to assist with needs at shelters. Students volunteered an inordinate amount of time helping where they could; from reading to children at shelters to unloading supplies at the shelters. It was awe inspiring.
2. Only two Katy ISD campuses have major flood damage
At first glance, the damage appeared to be far more extensive than we could fathom. But after inspecting the campuses, the district found only two schools, Creech Elementary and Beck Junior High, had sustained severe damage. Fourteen Katy ISD campuses were located within neighborhoods directly impacted by flooding, though the school buildings remained intact!
2. Mayde Creek High School surprised everyone
Mayde Creek's campus was not only encompassed by water, but also by angels. It was expected to sustain serious damage. Upon inspection, however, the district found no water had entered!
4. All Cinco Ranch High School's shelter evacuees found long-term accommodations
Katy ISD set up two shelters during the flooding, which combined into one. They recently reported that all evacuees sheltered during the storm have been matched with long term accommodations or have been able to return to their homes. The Cinco Ranch shelter closed today at 2 PM due to lack of evacuees. Now that's some good news! Photo courtesy of Senator Lois Kolkhorst
5. Katy High School served as the staging area for National Guard
What an honor it was to see the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, the Texas State Guard, and other first responders in action in the Katy community and proudly walking the halls of Katy High School. Every time those military helicopters flew over us or the Army trucks rolled through our flooded streets, it made us all feel just a little bit safer. Thank you!
Katy ISD is projecting to re-open on September 11, 2017, with staff who can safely commute returning to work on Wednesday, September 6, 2017. The district will keep parents updated on progress and return to school plans in the coming days.