| Return to School Updates | Return to School Updates | | <div class="ExternalClass11CA914E23FD48C9B2DE3C11E23D392E"><p></p><div class="ms-rtestate-read ms-rte-embedcode ms-rte-embedil ms-rtestate-notify"><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/16d21ffc812dca9698d55af7d3235383/_BackToSchool_email_%25284%2529.png" alt="RTS" width="700" height="120" /> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>September 17, 2021</strong> <br> </p>
<p>Dear Katy ISD Parents, Guardians and Staff, </p>
<p>Below is this week’s ONEKaty Return to School Updates! </p>
<p>Bulletins highlighted <span style="background-color:#00ff00;"><strong>NEW </strong></span>denote information that is new for the 2021-2022 school year. </p>
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<p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/33f1e0f324d222c0377a8e5f1c8dd013/Student_Updates_-_ALL.JPG" alt="STUDENT UPDATES - ALL" width="699" height="86" /> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>SAFE RETURN TO SCHOOL: SAFETY PROTOCOLS</u></strong> </span><br> Please click here for Katy ISD’s most up to date <a href="/returntoschool/Documents/SRTS_Plan.pdf">Safe Return to School Plan</a>. </p>
<p><strong>COVID Self-Reporting App</strong> <br><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/f1fd600fc571d3f04830bdc13722e4ba/COVID_Self_Report.png" alt="COVID APP" width="237" height="40" /><br> The District’s online COVID-19 Reporting System allows staff, students, and parents to self-report if they have received a COVID-19 positive test result. The self-reporting system enables the District’s Emergency Operations Management team to conduct contact tracing, as well as call and notify individuals in Katy ISD buildings who may have been directly exposed to the person. </p>
<p><strong>Student Classroom and Student Program Notification of a COVID Positive</strong> <br> Parents will receive a notification if their child may have been in close contact with an individual who has reported a COVID-19 positive in their classroom or school program. Parents are encouraged to check the Katy ISD COVID-19 Dashboard at <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/">www.katyisd.org</a> to review the current active number of COVID-19 cases at their child’s campus. </p>
<p><strong>Stage 4: Mitigation: </strong>Protocols for one or more confirmed case(s) of COVID-19 at a campus have been expanded at Stage 4 and can be read in full on page 9 in the <a href="/returntoschool/Documents/SRTS_Plan.pdf">Safe Return to School Plan</a>. </p>
<p><strong>Student and Staff COVID Testing</strong> </p>
<p>Katy ISD COVID-19 Testing Center is located at the Agricultural Sciences Center. Testing is free to any school age student. Parental/Guardian permission is required for all students below the age of 18 prior to testing as well as a reservation to reserve a time slot. </p>
<p><u>Operation:</u> </p>
<p>Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. <br><strong><span style="background-color:#00ff00;">New</span>:</strong> Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.<br>Location: 5801 Katy Hockley Cut Off Road, Katy, TX 77493 <br><u>Eligibility</u>: Katy ISD students must present a valid student identification. </p>
<p>Reservations: <a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/73375d80fa1caefc06-week">Katy ISD Student COVID-19 Testing Appointment link</a> <br><em>Permissions Slips Available On-Site </em> <br>If you have additional questions, please email <a href="mailto:COVID19Responses@katyisd.org">COVID19Responses@katyisd.org</a> related to this program. </p>
<p>Beginning September 11, 2021 staff and students may be tested for COVID on Saturdays from 8:00am until 12:00pm. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>HEALTH SERVICES</u></strong><strong> </strong> </span><br>All students enrolled in Katy ISD must be in compliance with state required immunizations. Immunization requirements can be found on the <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/dept/healthservices/Pages/Immunizations.aspx">Katy ISD Health Services Immunizations page</a>. </p>
<p>Katy ISD Health Services Department is partnering with Texas Vaccine Institute is proud to announce a low cost, immunization opportunity for our students who may need state required vaccines for school attendance or who may want to take advantage of receiving the optional, Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at no cost or the <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Flu vaccine for $15.00</span>.</strong> <br><br> <strong>WHEN:<span style="color:#ff0000;"> October 21st </span></strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"> </span> <br><strong>Time: </strong>2:00PM – 5:00PM <br><strong>Location:</strong> Martha Aki Project Tyke building </p>
<p>Texas Vaccine Institute provider information: <br><strong>WHO</strong>: Accepting insured and uninsured <br><strong>PRICE</strong>: $15 for one immunization; $25 for two, $30 for three or more for the REQUIRED STATE IMMUNIZATIONS <br><strong>BRING</strong>: Campus Nurse provided “PARENT NOTIFICATION OF IMMUNIZATION DUE NOTIFICATION" form, Child’s Personal Immunization Record, Insurance Card if insured </p>
<p>Accepting Cash/Credit/Debit Cards <br> <br> <strong>OPTIONAL VACCINES</strong>: Pfizer COVID vaccine at NO COST, provide insurance card if insured. <br>FLU vaccine for $15.00 </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>ATHLETICS</u></strong> </span> <br> <strong>Clear Bag Regulation</strong> <br> Spectators – this is a reminder that clear bags are required to enter Rhodes Stadium, Legacy Stadium, and the Merrell Center. See the full details and exceptions here: <a href="/students/Pages/SafetySecurity.aspx#ClearBagRegulation">https://www.katyisd.org/students/Pages/SafetySecurity.aspx#ClearBagRegulation</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>LEGACY PARENT ACADEMY</u></strong> </span><br><strong>Topic:</strong> The Ugly Truth About Vaping <br><strong>Date: </strong>September 22, 2021 <br><strong>Time:</strong> 6:00- 7:00 pm <br><strong>Location:</strong> Legacy Stadium </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>ENROLLMENT UPDATE</u></strong> </span><br><strong>Annual Student Update via PowerSchool</strong> <br> <strong><span style="background-color:#00ff00;">NEW</span>:</strong> The deadline has passed to complete the annual update. If you have not completed the update, an email will be sent to the address on file, requesting completion as soon as possible. Parents can access their child’s Annual Student Update form directly from within the <a href="https://homeaccess.katyisd.org/HomeAccess/Account/LogOn?ReturnUrl=/HomeAccess/">Home Access Center (HAC)</a>. For detailed instructions on accessing the Annual Student Update via the HAC: <a href="/registration/Documents/Parent_Single_Sign-On_Annual_Student_Update.pdf">Single Sign-on Step-by-Step Instructions Manual</a>, <a href="/registration/Documents/Parent_Single_Sign-On_Annual_Student_Update-SPA.pdf">Single Sign-on Step-by-Step Instructions Manual - Spanish</a>. <a href="/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/default.aspx">Parent Tech Support ticket</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"><strong><u>UPDATED:</u></strong></span><strong><u><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"> </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">PASSWORD RESETS</span></u></strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"> <br></span>Katy ISD uses the MyKaty Cloud <strong>single sign on</strong> platform that allows students to access all District applications with one User ID and one password. In order to promote a safe and secure online learning experience, secondary students (grades 6-12) are requested to rest their password by September 22 by visiting the <a href="https://passwordreset.katyisd.org/">Katy ISD Password Self-Service webpage</a>. After that, secondary students will be prompted to reset their single sign in password once every 180 days (about twice a year). </p>
<p>Elementary students enrolled in in-person learning will receive an updated password from their classroom teacher by September 27. The parents of KVA enrolled students will receive an email with information on their child’s updated password by that same date. Please note that elementary students <u>are not</u> required, or prompted, to update their passwords outside of this process. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>INTERMITTENT HOME TO SCHOOL ACADEMIC SUPPORT FOR TEMPORARY MEDICAL CONDITIONS</u></strong> </span> <br>Students who attend in-person learning and test positive for COVID-19, elect to isolate due to COVID, or any other medical condition requiring an extended absence, will have access to the Intermittent Home to School learning option, allowing students to access and stay current on assignments through the Katy ISD Learning Management System (Canvas). Intermittent School to Home is not a virtual program, such as KVA, and students cannot exceed a total of 20 cumulative days utilizing this option. </p>
<p>Students are encouraged to continue to report a COVID-19 positive via the COVID-19 Self Report APP. Beginning on Monday, August 16, in-person learning students who self-report a COVID-19 positive, may select via the APP, Intermittent School to Home academic support. The academic support is specifically for in-person students to access missed assignments via Canvas when absent from school for an extended period of time. <strong>Student Devices for Intermittent Learning: </strong>Students may use a personal device, or a campus issued device for Intermittent Learning. After a student self-reports, a question will prompt the student if he or she needs a device and/or hotspot. The librarian at the home campus will receive the request. The librarian will email the parent with a pickup date and time at the student’s home campus. If the parent does not receive an email, contact <a href="/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/default.aspx">Parent Help Desk</a>. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>FREE MEALS, THE SOCIOECONOMIC INCOME FORM and FREE & REDUCED MEAL APPLICATION</u></strong> </span> <br>In preparation for the new school year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on April 20 that all schools will be allowed to serve free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of eligibility, through June 30, 2022. While meals are free to everyone, it is important to still fill out a Free and Reduced Meal Application, as you may qualify for other benefits and discounts. Additional benefits may include: </p>
<p><strong><u>Free</u></strong> <br>Pre-K programs <br>Use of musical instruments for band and orchestra <br>Career and Technical Education certification exams <br>Summer Meals </p>
<p><strong><u>Discounted</u></strong> <br>Summer school tuition <br>Advanced Placement exams <br>SAT and ACT test fees <br>College application fees <br>Career and Technical Education fees </p>
<p>Free and Reduced Meal Benefit Applications are available online at <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.schoolcafe.com/__%3b%21%21N081aGSY%21HE9mxGZVYMdjHE4hYwfr73-fNhJWIL0XGC7iwf9otEGxua7k1XKILWrgzt2kWvy3ZmfRdg$">SchoolCafe.com</a><u>.</u> To deposit funds online for a la carte purchases, please visit <u>Pay N’ Go</u>. </p>
<p>In addition, to ensure Katy ISD qualifies for eligible funding from the state during the extended free meal period through June 2022, Katy ISD is asking all parents to complete the Socioeconomic Income Form two-part questionnaire in the Annual Student Update. Submitting the questionnaire information will support Katy ISD in qualifying for additional state dollars to support our students’ continued academic and personal success during the upcoming school year. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>CANVAS INFORMATION GUIDES</u></strong> </span><br>Canvas<strong> </strong>is Katy ISD’s student learning management system that supports learning inside and outside of the classroom. Parents and students can follow the links below for additional information. <br><a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/canvas-parent-user-guide">Canvas Parent Guide</a> <em>English & Spanish available</em> <br><a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/canvas-essential-expectations">Secondary Student Canvas Guide</a> <em>English & Spanish available</em> <br><a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/canvas-elementary-student-user-guide">Elementary Student Canvas Guide</a> <em>English & Spanish available</em> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>STUDENT EMAILS</u></strong> </span><br> <strong>Secondary </strong>students have access to a <a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/accessing-email-mykaty-cloud">Katy ISD email account</a>. Students are required to use their District email for all school-related communications and to receive information from their teachers and campus. Student email addresses are available via the <a href="https://mykaty.katyisd.org/LoginPolicy.jsp">MyKaty Cloud</a> District email tile. </p>
<p>Secondary students can setup their Katy ISD email on their smartphones. Setup instructions: <a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/microsoft-outlook-365-apple-device-setuphttps:/help.katyisd.org/help/microsoft-outlook-365-apple-device-setup">iPhone</a> and <a href="https://help.katyisd.org/help/microsoft-outlook-365-android-device-setup">Android</a> phone. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>STUDENT DEVICES</u></strong></span> <br>Student Devices will be issued if a student needs to go on Intermittent Learning.<br>After a student self-reports, a question will prompt the student if he or she needs a device and/or hotspot. <em>Note: A student may use a personal device</em>. <br>The librarian at the home campus will receive the request. <br>The librarian will email the parent with a pickup date and time at the student’s home campus. <br>If the parent does not receive an email, contact the <em> </em><a href="/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/default.aspx"><em>Parent Help Desk</em></a><em>.</em> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>STUDENT DISCIPLINE</u></strong> </span><br> <strong>Updates for 2021-2022</strong> <br> The Katy ISD Board of Trustees approved the 2021-2022 <a href="/dept/legal/Documents/Discipline%20Management%20Plan.pdf"><em>Discipline Management Plan and Student Code of Conduct</em></a> on Monday, July 26. A summary of the changes can be found <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/go.boarddocs.com/tx/kisd/Board.nsf/files/C4XKRP5324DF/$file/Detailed%2a20Summary%2a20of%2a20Changes%2a20for%2a202021-22%2a20DMP.pdf__%3bJSUlJSUl%21%21N081aGSY%21HE9mxGZVYMdjHE4hYwfr73-fNhJWIL0XGC7iwf9otEGxua7k1XKILWrgzt2kWvzxG40Jsg$">here</a>. Two significant changes include: </p>
<ul>
<li>Students who engage in a second offense related to vaping or paraphernalia (selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using, or being under the influence) regardless of the substance, will be recommended to the District’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP), the Opportunity Awareness Center (OAC). </li>
<li>Students who are in possession of synthetic or look-alike drugs will also be recommended to the DAEP. </li>
</ul>
<p>Parents and students should review the <em>Discipline Management Plan and Student Code of Conduct</em> each year to be aware of behavior expectations and potential consequences. </p>
<p>Katy ISD appreciates partnering with parents to ensure all students can attend alcohol, drug, and vape-free campuses. Student safety and academic success is our number one priority! </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>STUDENT ID CARDS</u></strong> </span><br>In accordance with Senate Bill 279, Katy ISD has updated student identification cards for students in grades 4 through 12 to include additional resources for crisis intervention and mental health support. Student ID cards will now have contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Crisis Text Line. Additionally, Katy ISD includes a QR code for SpeakUP, our anonymous reporting app, as well as the Katy Connect Crisis Line. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>STUDENT SCHEDULES</u></strong> </span><br><strong>“How-To Guide” for Parents on the Home Access Center (HAC)</strong> <br> Need to know how to view a report card, student grades, or other information? Check out the how to guides in the <a href="https://homeaccess.katyisd.org/HomeAccess/Account/LogOn?ReturnUrl=/homeaccess">Home Access Center</a> or click below. <br> <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/Documents/Home%20Access%20Center%20FAQ.pdf">Home Access Center (HAC) User Guide (English)</a> <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/Documents/Home%20Access%20Center%20FAQ%20-%20Spanish.pdf">Home Access Center (HAC) User Guide (Spanish)</a><strong> </strong> </p>
<p><strong>New for 2021-2022! </strong>Behavior data will be available in the HAC for all secondary students. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT</u></strong> </span> <br> Parents, as we begin the new school year, we want to ensure you have the resources at your fingertips.<strong> Follow the links below to find helpful resources. </strong> <br> <strong>Parents/Students Technology Support Inquiries Online</strong> <br> <a href="/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/default.aspx">Parent & Student Tech Resources & Support</a> (if you are not able to find your answer, a form is at the bottom of this page) <br> <a href="http://www.katyisd.org/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/Parent-Tech-FAQs.aspx">Parent Technology FAQs <br> </a><a href="/dept/technology/PTH/Pages/Knowledge-Base-for-Students-and-Parents.aspx">Katy 1 Source (Parent & Student Searchable Knowledge Base)</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>TRANSPORTATION</u></strong><strong>: BUS SERVICE INFORMATION</strong> </span> <br> <a href="http://busroutes.katyisd.org/wqliveweb/webquery/">Transportation WebQuery</a> became available on August 9! Are you eligible for bus service? Katy ISD Transportation WebQuery can tell you. Find your bus number, bus stop, pick-up and drop-off times by using the WebQuery. Enter your house number and street, select your child's grade or school, and find out about your eligibility for service, or when and where your child can catch the bus. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>CHILD FIND</u></strong><strong> </strong> </span><br>Child Find is a process designed to identify, locate, and evaluate individuals from birth to 21 years of age who may need special education and related services. If you are concerned that your child may have a disability, contact your student’s school for more information about the Child Find process or click on the following link. </p>
<p><a href="/dept/sped/Pages/Child%20Find.aspx">Katy ISD Child Find Information Page</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>CHARACTER EDUCATION</u></strong></span><strong> </strong> <br>Katy ISD is continuing our partnership with CharacterStrong in our ongoing effort to actively support the emotional well-being of all learners. Schools will undoubtedly face a host of challenges with all students returning to in-person learning. We know that some of our students have not been on campus for 18 months. Therefore, re-establishing a strong community and fostering a positive school climate is a priority for all Katy ISD campuses. Relationships are the heart of a positive school climate. The foundation of the CharacterStrong curriculum is building connections at school, home, and in the community. ONEKaty - Stronger Together! </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>SpeakUP Anonymous Reporting App</u></strong><strong> </strong> </span><br>SpeakUP is the anonymous reporting platform that students, parents, and patrons can use to report safety concerns, bullying, threats of violence, drug use, as well as any other concerns related to student physical or mental health. SpeakUP is available for download in the Apple Store or Google Play. It is also available on all district websites, computers, and district devices. SpeakUP provides an opportunity for the Katy ISD community to anonymously provide valuable information to district administration and law enforcement that will help keep our students safe. </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/957f09d0cd52a16decaaafc2963739b2/Student_Updates_-_ELEMENTARY.JPG" alt="STUDENT UPDATES - ELEM" width="699" height="86" /> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>KATY VIRTUAL ACADEMY (KVA) GRADES K-6*</u></strong> </span> <br>Questions regarding the KVA Grades K-6 online learning program may be directed to <a href="mailto:KVA@katyisd.org">KVA@katyisd.org</a>. The KVA Grades K-6 Sunday newsletter will continue to be sent out every Sunday through the return of students to in-person learning on Monday, October 18. The KVA team appreciates the patience and flexibility of parents and students as we work to build this online learning opportunity option for Katy ISD K-6 students. </p>
<p>Please note that in an effort to facilitate a quicker response to KVA questions and concerns for 6<sup>th</sup> grade students, a new designated email has been added just for 6<sup>th</sup> grade - <a href="mailto:KVA6@KatyISD.org">KVA6@KatyISD.org.</a> The original email <a href="mailto:KVA@KatyISD.org">KVA@KatyISD.org</a> will remain open to all K-5 KVA questions/concerns. The contact phone number for all KVA will remain the same. </p>
<p>KVA is accepting requests to return to in-person learning prior to October 15. Parents can submit their request to <a href="mailto:KVA@KatyISD.org">KVA@KatyISD.org</a> or to <a href="mailto:KVA6@KatyISD.org">KVA6@KatyISD.org</a> (for 6<sup>th</sup> graders) prior to end of the day on Thursdays. Student enrollment will be switched back to the home campus building and scheduled to begin on the following Monday morning. </p>
<p>The application to enroll in KVA closed on Tuesday, August 17 and the program is no longer accepting enrollment. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"><strong>NEW</strong> </span><strong>KVA Attendance</strong> <br>KVA students are required to be "present" online during their synchronous Zoom class period every school day. Being considered present involves student camera turned on and student actively participating in class activities and assignments. </p>
<p>Students who arrive in the Zoom classroom between the scheduled beginning time and 15 minutes, thereafter, are considered tardy. </p>
<p>Students who arrive 15 minutes from the start of the synchronous Zoom period will be counted absent. Students may not leave the Zoom classroom early or they will be counted absent. </p>
<p><strong>KVA Progress Interim Report (IPR) Grades </strong> <br>KVA progress interim report (IPR) grades will not be provided for KVA students during this grading period. Parents and students can access their grades at any time by accessing HAC or by accessing Canvas at <a href="https://katyisd.instructure.com/">https://katyisd.instructure.com</a> and using the same log in credentials used to log into the Home Access Center (HAC). </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>WHO TO CONTACT?</u></strong> </span> <br><strong>KVA Grades K-5:</strong> (281) 234-2060/ <a href="mailto:KVA@katyisd.org">KVA@katyisd.org</a> <br><strong>KVA Grades 6:</strong> (281) 234-2060/ <a href="mailto:KVA@katyisd.org">KVA6@katyisd.org</a> <br><strong>COVID concerns:</strong> 281-396-7499/ <a href="mailto:covid19responses@KatyISD.org">covid19responses@KatyISD.org </a> <br><strong>Intermittent Home to School Academic Support:</strong> Contact your Campus Facilitator </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>KVA GRADES K-6 GRAB & GO FOOD SERVICE</u></strong> </span><br>The Grab and Go meal service is available to students enrolled in the KVA Grades K-6 program. The curbside Grab and Go meal sites operate on Tuesdays only where breakfast and lunch meals are provided for the entire week of instruction. Grab and go breakfast and lunch meals are ready to heat and eat at home. </p>
<p>Curbside Grab and Go is available at Morton Ranch High School and Cinco Ranch High School from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. </p>
<p>Students who eat meals at school are not eligible for meals at the Grab and Go location. Grab and Go meals are available at no cost to all children 18 and under who are enrolled in KVA and are <u>not</u> attending a school in person. If parents and/or guardians are picking up meals for their children and the children are not present, identification for each child such as an ID, report card or birth certificate must be presented prior to receiving the meals. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>LUNCH VISITORS & BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS</u></strong><strong> </strong> </span> <br>Each campus will communicate their 2021-2022 plans for hosting lunch visitors. The campus lunch visitor procedures may vary from campus to campus. Birthday treats (food, gift bags, etc.) will not be accepted at campuses this year district wide. Each campus will communicate how student birthdays will be acknowledged: through morning announcements, a token from the principal, etc. We appreciate our parents’ support and please look for specific information regarding lunch visitors and birthday celebrations via your child’s elementary campus communications. </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong><u><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/31234feb3d3b68942f543515a72d00c8/Student_Updates_-_SECONDARY.JPG" alt="STUDENT UPDATES - SECONDARY" width="699" height="88" /></u></strong> </p>
<p><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"><strong><u>NEW</u></strong></span><strong><u><span style="background-color:#00ff00;">:</span><span style="color:#ff0000;"> 2021-2022 & 2022-2023 High School Exemption Criteria</span></u></strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"> </span><br>The 2021-2022 and the 2022-2023 final exam exemption criteria information is accessible via the <a href="https://mykaty.katyisd.org/LoginPolicy.jsp">My Katy Cloud</a> “Exemption Information” tile now available for quick and easy reference. </p>
<p>In preparation for the 2022-2023 school year and the reinstatement of the attendance requirement to exempt high school final exams, students are encouraged to review the 2022-2023 exemption criteria. All absences will count toward the 8 maximum allowed unless the absences are school-related (see attendance codes per the 22-23 exemption form). </p>
<p><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"><strong><u>NEW:</u></strong></span><strong><u><span style="background-color:#00ff00;"> </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">COLLEGE AND CAREER NIGHT</span></u></strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"> <br></span>Katy ISD will be hosting College and Career Night on October 6, 2021 from 7:00PM-9:00PM at the Leonard E. Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Lane. Representatives from colleges, universities, technical schools, and military academies from across the country will be in attendance to answer questions regarding their specific schools and programs. All Katy ISD students and families are welcomed to attend. More information will be provided through e-news soon. <a href="https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:f4fc5eaa-28ba-436c-819c-ccd81cdb1012">College and Career Night Flyer</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>KATY VIRTUAL ACADEMY (KVA) GRADES K-6*</u></strong></span> <br>Questions regarding the KVA Grades K-6 online learning program may be directed to <a href="mailto:KVA@katyisd.org">KVA@katyisd.org</a>. The KVA Grades K-6 Sunday newsletter will continue to be sent out every Sunday through the return of students to in-person learning on Monday, October 18. The KVA team appreciates the patience and flexibility of parents and students as we work to build this online learning opportunity option for Katy ISD K-6 students. </p>
<p><strong><span style="background-color:#00ff00;">New</span>:</strong> Please note that in an effort to facilitate a quicker response to KVA questions and concerns for 6<sup>th</sup> grade students, a new designated email has been added just for 6<sup>th</sup> grade - <a href="mailto:KVA6@KatyISD.org">KVA6@KatyISD.org</a> The contact phone number for KVA is 281) 234-2060. </p>
<p>KVA is accepting requests to return to in-person learning prior to October 15. Parents of 6<sup>th</sup> graders can submit their request to <a href="mailto:KVA6@KatyISD.org">KVA6@KatyISD.org</a> prior to end of the day on Thursdays. Student enrollment will be switched back to the home campus building and scheduled to begin on the following Monday morning. </p>
<p>The application to enroll in KVA closed on Tuesday, August 17 and the program is no longer accepting enrollment. </p>
<p><strong>NEW</strong> <strong>KVA Attendance</strong> <br>KVA students are required to be "present" online during their synchronous Zoom class period every school day. Being considered present involves student camera turned on and student actively participating in class activities and assignments. </p>
<p>Students who arrive in the Zoom classroom between the scheduled beginning time and 15 minutes, thereafter, are considered tardy. </p>
<p>Students who arrive 15 minutes from the start of the synchronous Zoom period will be counted absent. Students may not leave the Zoom classroom early or they will be counted absent. </p>
<p><strong>KVA Progress Interim Report (IPR) Grades </strong> <br>KVA progress interim report (IPR) grades will not be provided for KVA students during this grading period. Parents and students can access their grades at any time by accessing HAC or by accessing Canvas at <a href="https://katyisd.instructure.com/">https://katyisd.instructure.com</a> and using the same log in credentials used to log into the Home Access Center (HAC). </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>ENROLLMENT SCHEDULES/TRANSCRIPTS</u></strong> </span><br><strong>High School Transcript Request</strong> <br> Current high school students and 2004 to present alumni students can request their high school transcript through ScribOrder. The link to request can be found on your high school campus Registrar page or here: <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/katyisdtx.scriborder.com/__%3b%21%21N081aGSY%21HE9mxGZVYMdjHE4hYwfr73-fNhJWIL0XGC7iwf9otEGxua7k1XKILWrgzt2kWvzgVtM9jQ$">https://katyisdtx.scriborder.com/</a>. Alumni prior to 2004 will reach out to the campus registrar to make a request. Should you have questions, please contact your campus registrar for assistance. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>GPA EXEMPT COURSE INFORMATION 2021-2022</u></strong> </span><br>The 2021-2022 GPA Exempt Courses Information can be found here <a href="https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:0701521c-6f4c-43c7-be23-5dd44b3d836b">GPA Exempt Course Information</a> Starting in the 2021-2022 school year, the GPA exemption application will be an online form located in My Katy Cloud. </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>UDPATED GPA & RANK CALCULATIONS IN THE HAC</u></strong> </span><br>Updated GPA (10th - 12th grades) and updated rank (12th grade) are available in the HAC. This information is viewable in Home Access Center (HAC) and clicking on the Grades icon and Transcript Tab. You can access HAC by logging into <a href="https://mykaty.katyisd.org/LoginPolicy.jsp">MyKaty Cloud</a> and clicking on the Home Access Center tile. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Please note, rank is unofficial in HAC and only the official quartile prints on the certified Transcripts, unless rank is # 1-#10 and that will be noted numerically for rank. </p>
<p>Updated and official transcripts can be ordered via <a href="https://katyisdtx.scriborder.com/">Scribbles</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Students interested in taking one of the GPA Exempt courses must discuss this option with their counselor at the beginning of the course. If the student meets all the criteria, they must: </p>
<ol>
<li><u>Complete the online GPA Exempt application located in MyKaty Cloud</u></li>
</ol>
<p> </p>
<ol start="2">
<li>Submit the application no later than the end of the 6th week of each semester. At this time, if all criteria are met, it will be approved, and a schedule change will be made to reflect enrollment in a GPA Exempt course. </li>
</ol>
<p> </p>
<ol start="3">
<li>Once the student makes the decision to take a course as GPA-exempt, the decision is final and cannot be changed. </li>
</ol>
<p> </p>
<ol start="4">
<li>Students enrolled in full-year courses do not need to reapply during the second semester. </li>
</ol>
<p> </p>
<ol start="5">
<li>Students, including move-in students, who miss the deadline for application for the first semester, may apply for exemption for the second semester if they meet the criteria. </li>
</ol>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>FINE ARTS</u></strong> </span><br> Students that are enrolled in fine arts programs and are interested in the GPA exempt program, please refer to the GPA Exempt Course Information 2021-2022 section in this communication. Fine arts GPA exemption is designed for the student who is continuously enrolled in year 2, 3, or 4 of the same fine arts discipline. </p>
<p>Course fees owed for Fine Arts programs may be paid through the Pay N’ Go app. If your Fine Arts program started before school, please refer to your campus director regarding beginning payment date; otherwise, you may begin making payments on the Pay N’ Go app. </p>
<p>Fine Arts students that use a school owned instrument, please contact your program director regarding the payment of the Instrument Usage Fee through Pay N’ Go. </p>
<p>For a current list of fine arts performances, please click on the following link for information: <a href="/dept/finearts/Pages/Calendar.aspx">https://www.katyisd.org/dept/finearts/Pages/Calendar.aspx</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>HUMAN SEXUALITY INSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION: SECONDARY</u></strong> </span> <br>Students enrolled in high school health will receive instruction in Human Growth and Development during the third six weeks for students earning credit during the fall semester or the sixth six weeks for students earning credit during the spring semester. Topics will include the physical changes resulting from puberty, as well as, personal hygiene, abuse, abstinence, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. The purpose of the curriculum is to provide students with information about how to deal with the challenges of early adolescence and to supplement the efforts of parents as they educate and support their teens. We encourage you to talk with your child about the content and incorporate your own values. </p>
<p>All lessons are aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and meet the requirements that are mandated by the state. Holt Lifetime Health by Rinehart and Winston is the Katy ISD approved curriculum resource. Parents can review the health curriculum materials on each individual campus by request. Parents also have the right to have their student opt out of human growth and development instruction. A permission form will be sent home with your student at least 14 days prior to the instruction being introduced to students. </p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/pt05-1/images/tinymce/ba8c9464906989960efdfb0ccd7f0924/Parent_Updates.JPG" alt="PARENT UPDATES" width="699" height="88" /> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: Senate Bill (SB) 1697</u></strong> </span><br> The 87th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill (SB) 1697, which amends state law to allow parents and guardians to elect for a student to repeat a grade or retake a high school course. The legislation, which went into effect on June 16, 2021, gives parents or guardians the right to opt for their child to: </p>
<ul>
<li>repeat pre-kindergarten or enroll in pre-kindergarten if the child was eligible to enroll in pre-kindergarten in the previous school year and has not yet enrolled in kindergarten; </li>
<li>repeat kindergarten or enroll in kindergarten if the child would have enrolled in kindergarten in the previous school year and has not yet enrolled in first grade; and </li>
<li>for grades one through three, repeat the grade the student was enrolled in during the previous school year. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>For the 2021-2022 school year only</strong>, parents or guardians have the right to opt for their child: </p>
<ul>
<li>for grades four through eight, repeat the grade the student was enrolled in during the 2020-2021 school year; and </li>
<li>for courses taken for high school credit, repeat any course in which the student was enrolled during the 2020-2021 school year. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Things to consider:</strong> </p>
<ul>
<li>For children in grades one through eight, repeating may be right for your child if he/she struggled learning while remaining virtual most of the year. </li>
<li>For students who took high school courses, repeating one or more courses may be right for your child if he/she struggled in a foundational course (e.g., Algebra I or Computer Science). </li>
<li>For children interested in high school varsity sports, review <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/c7wNxo2qRFq5cwMRK1WreQ%2a%2aA/AAAAAQA%2a/RgRi2DUIP0QraHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudWlsdGV4YXMub3JnL3BvbGljeS9lbGlnaWJpbGl0eVcHc2Nob29sbUIKYO6IAfdg2xINHlITc2FuZWViZWxsQGdtYWlsLmNvbVgEAAAAAQ%2a%2aA__%3bfn5-fn4%21%21N081aGSY%21AdzYRJZ0Lp5va2CU7rSc8wbDxWTpnyBP2VMdYv6f_eyhSMHsztsIncIeZKIM0OZF$">eligibility rules</a>based on student age. </li>
<li>If a high school student received a passing grade for the course that they are requesting to repeat, they will keep their original grade on their transcript. </li>
<li>During the 2021-2022 school year, students may retake a high school credit course, that was previously passed, to ensure foundational knowledge and skills were mastered. Students who elect to retake a high school credit course to ensure mastery of the course curriculum will receive a PASS/FAIL grade at the end of the semester(s). The PASS/FAIL grade will post to the student’s transcript and the PASS/FAIL grade will not calculate into the student’s GPA. </li>
</ul>
<p>According to the new law, parents or guardians are required to notify the District in writing if interested in having their child retained a grade level or retake a high school credit course. Parents may email their request to <a href="mailto:SB1697requests@katyisd.org">SB1697requests@katyisd.org</a>. A campus representative will be in contact. Please note that a school district may disagree with a parent who elects to have their child repeat a grade level. If a district disagrees, the district must convene a retention committee and meet with the parent or guardian to discuss the proposed retention. After the parent/ guardian has participated in the retention committee meeting, the parent or guardian will decide if the student will be retained. </p>
<p>Additional information is available at: <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/B1l5MMzEi1DM96XhEoRo7A%2a%2aA/AAAAAQA%2a/RgRi2DUIP0QhaHR0cHM6Ly90ZWEudGV4YXMuZ292L3JlcGVhdGdyYWRlVwdzY2hvb2xtQgpg7ogB92DbEg0eUhNzYW5lZWJlbGxAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB__%3bfn5-%21%21N081aGSY%21AdzYRJZ0Lp5va2CU7rSc8wbDxWTpnyBP2VMdYv6f_eyhSMHsztsIncIeZL-fkm6_$">https://tea.texas.gov/repeatgrade</a> and <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/QpWAMMDqYRUuRgmz4el5AA%2a%2aA/AAAAAQA%2a/RgRi2DUIP0QjaHR0cHM6Ly90ZWEudGV4YXMuZ292L3Jlc3RhcnRraW5kZXJXB3NjaG9vbG1CCmDuiAH3YNsSDR5SE3NhbmVlYmVsbEBnbWFpbC5jb21YBAAAAAE%2a__%3bfn5-fg%21%21N081aGSY%21AdzYRJZ0Lp5va2CU7rSc8wbDxWTpnyBP2VMdYv6f_eyhSMHsztsIncIeZCXebg-Y$">https://tea.texas.gov/restartkinder</a> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><u>LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: House Bill (HB) 1525</u></strong> </span><br><strong>Elementary Parent Notification of Human Sexuality Instruction</strong> </p>
<p>All lessons meet the requirements that are mandated by the state and are aligned with the Texas Essentials Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). A film on growth and development, “Always Changing and Growing Up”, will be shown to fifth grade students during the spring semester. </p>
<p>This information is being presented to bring an understanding of the developmental changes your child can expect as a normal part of growing up. This content is intended to initiate conversations between you and your child about the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur during adolescence. If you have already spoken with your child about this topic, the program will refresh the facts you have offered and reaffirm the healthy behaviors he/she has learned from you. </p>
<p>Parents are welcome to preview the film that will be presented to your child by contacting your home campus. Parents have the right to opt out of having their child view the film and participate in the discussion. A permission form will be sent home prior to the instruction to indicate if your child will or will not view the film and/or participate in the discussion. </p>
<p><strong>#OneKatyStrongerTogether</strong> </p>
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