Creating Memories and Growing Traditions at Katy’s Newest High School
KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
October 23, 2026
By Natalie Cook Clark
Freeman High School, Katy ISD’s 10th high school, celebrates “Forthcoming” with their first senior class. The school continues to build traditions in the theme of their “Golden Standard.”
Katy ISD high schools celebrate rich traditions and one of the strongest is homecoming. For weeks social media has been full of pictures of outrageously big mums, school parade and pep rallies, and of course the big football game. Tonight Freeman High School celebrates their “Forthcoming” as the school continues to grow into its traditions.
“Creating traditions at Freeman High School has been an exciting experience involving our students, parents, and staff,” says Freeman High School Principal Gina Cobb. “We have been intentional from the start to make sure our traditions are inspired and aligned to our mission to provide opportunities and experiences that empower every individual (All Means All) . Whether we are celebrating our seniors, building school spirit, or recognizing student and staff accomplishments, we want every experience to be meaningful, inclusive and reflective of the fact that every individual belongs, every voice matters and everyone has an opportunity to be part of the Freeman High School story.”
Homecoming is one of the greatest traditions and memories for high school students. How do you have a homecoming when there are no seniors to come home? Katy ISD’s 10th high school has you answer as their “Forthcoming” is this week.
“Having seniors this year allows us to continue to have numerous ‘Freeman Firsts,’” says Cobb.
In a season full of building traditions, there are a few that stand out.
“Our school song is one of the traditions that will remain part of Freeman's identity for generations,” explains Cobb. “It was inspired by the spirit of excellence our students demonstrate every day and was created by our founding staff members.”
You can hear that song at Rhodes Stadium tonight. The Golden Eagle football team will take on Randle High School in their Forthcoming game at 7:00 p.m.
“The number 10 also holds special significance in our athletics programs,” says Cobb. “As Katy ISD's 10th high school, we embrace the number as a symbol of leadership and selflessness. Wearing No. 10 is an honor our student-athletes strive to earn.”
Freeman High School opens its doors August 2024, and Gina Cobb continues to serve as the school’s first principal during these crucial years of development.
“Serving as Freeman's principal during these foundational years has been an incredible opportunity,” states Cobb. “We have had the opportunity from the start to shape our culture, establish traditions, and define what Freeman stands for. Our vision, Be Above, and our GOLD Standard (Growth, Opportunity, Leadership, and Determination) help drive our work. We are building a foundation that will impact students for generations to come. Our students represent the best of our community, and they demonstrate that through their achievements in academics, athletics and fine arts, as well as their character. It's a privilege to help establish a school culture and traditions that will continue long after our first graduating class.”
Cobb can be seen at most school events and even leads the community in her signature “K’kaw” at football games. As Freeman prepares to celebrate their first graduating class this spring, she continues to strive towards creating a culture and school full of traditions that they will forever hold on to.
“I hope our seniors graduate with lasting friendships, meaningful memories and an appreciation for the teachers, coaches, directors and staff who supported them along the way,” says Cobb. “Most importantly, I want them to leave Freeman prepared and confident in their next steps, whether they pursue college, technical education, careers or military service.”
Freeman High School takes its strong belief in service from their namesake, the Freeman family. The Freeman family has a strong civic service connection in Katy that includes deep roots in agriculture and education. W.E. and Mae Belle Freeman, the first generation of Freemans who settled in Katy in the late 19th century, understood the importance of a strong education and sacrificed so their children could attend school. Their children, Mae, Jesse and Dick finished the eighth grade at South Mayde Creek – the highest level offered at the time. Two of their other children, Bill and Buck, later graduated from Katy High School. Five generations of Freemans have graduated from Katy ISD schools and members of the sixth generation are currently enrolled in the district’s schools.
The District’s 10th high school is located in the northwest quadrant of the District at 7800 Katy Hockley Road. It will no doubt follow the standard of great Katy ISD high schools.
