KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
March 4, 2022
By Natalie Cook Clark
According to Katy ISD, an assistant coach has been charged with a second-degree felony for improper relationship with a student. Coach Robert Ownby, an assistant basketball coach at Tompkins High School hasn’t been on campus since the start of the investigation.
Assistant Coach Robert Ownby. Picture provided by KISD in 2020.
Assistant Basketball Coach Charged
Assistant Coach Robert Ownby has resigned from his position at Katy ISD’s Tompkins High School at the start of the investigation into his improper conduct with a student. According to the District, he has not been on campus since the investigation started after allegations were made.
Ownby has been the assistant basketball coach at Tompkins High School and even tied for Assistant Coach of the Year, as named by Katy ISD in 2020.
Katy ISD Takes Allegations Seriously
“The District takes these types of allegations very seriously and is fully cooperating with law enforcement and other agencies,” said Tompkins High School Principal Mark Grisdale in an email to parents and staff.
Grisdale also reminds students, parents, and staff that they can anonymously report concerns through the Districts free reporting app SpeakUp.
“Providing a safe and secure learning environment is our top priority, and we will always act swiftly when that is compromised. Students, staff and community play an important role in keeping our school safe by reporting potential threats or safety issues,” said Grisdale.