Katy ISD Hosts Forum to Address Student Safety in After-School Activities

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

January 25, 2024

By Natalie Cook Clark

Katy ISD is always focusing on student safety and that includes when students stay after school. This week the District hosted the National Interscholastic Athletics and After-school Activities Safety and Security Forum, held in collaboration with the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4).

Photos credit: Katy ISD

Many Katy Students Stay After School

Katy ISD students are active in many sports and extracurricular activities that lead them and spectators to visit District schools and venues outside of school hours. The purpose of this forum was to address the safety and security challenges that face interscholastic athletics and after-school activities. Leaders of various agencies met to discuss best practices.

“As both a spectator and the leader of a district supporting facilities and venues hosting large-scale events, I am grateful for the time and training you are engaging in that contributes to the safety of our communities.” Is what Katy ISD Superintendent, Dr. Ken Gregorski told all those who attended.

The forum included superintendents, principals, athletic administrators, school resource officers, emergency managers, and first responders from various regions across the state. Over a span of 48 hours, they engaged in small-group discussions and exercises, and heard from a vast range of speakers and panelists.

Many Topics and Scenarios Addressed

Important topics were covered such as emergency preparedness, effective management of fan behavior, hosting officials, addressing extreme weather and climate risks, and fostering a culture of safety. Attendees had the unique opportunity to learn from subject-matter experts, fostering a collaborative environment where attendees could share their knowledge.

“Katy ISD is proud to host this year’s NCS4 forum, an event that creates a collaborative environment where we can exchange ideas and best practices,” says Lance Carter, Executive Director of Athletics at Katy ISD. “Through engaging discussions and shared expertise, this forum provides an exceptional platform for learning and progress as we strive to provide our communities with a safe and welcoming environment at athletics and after-school events.”

Katy ISD stresses their commitment school safety and to fostering a safe and secure environment for its communities.