Katy ISD Distributes Thousands of Tech Devices for Virtual Learning

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

August 17, 2020

By Jennifer Miko

This Wednesday marks the start of the 2020-21 school year in Katy ISD. All classes will be held virtually for the first three weeks, and the District has committed to help local families meet the technical requirements for online instruction. To date, Katy ISD has received over 25,000 requests for technological devices.

Katy ISD has taken measures to ensure students and staff have the tools and resources to participate in virtual learning.

“No child will be left offline,” says Darlene Rankin, Director of Instructional Technology with Katy ISD.  “Our goal is to ensure our students have access to technology in order to learn virtually.”

'Grab and Go' Events Provide Needed Technology

During its two-day campus “Grab and Go” activities on August 17 and 18, Katy ISD will be distributing thousands of technology devices, including Chromebooks, laptops, iPads and hotspots.

The Katy ISD website says campus “Grab and Go” check-outs will include distribution of all devices requested via the Online New Student Enrollment & Registration, the Katy Virtual Academy commitment form, the Annual Student Update in PowerSchool and/or the Device Request Form.  

“Prior to the pandemic, the District was already transitioning to equipping our campuses and their libraries with technology devices for digital learning,” says Rankin. “Those devices, along with new purchases, are now being provided to students who have a technology need in their home.”

When the coronavirus pandemic forced Katy ISD campuses to close in the spring, the District distributed more than 12,000 devices to students across the District.  

Now, the Katy ISD Technology Department is prepared to distribute technology devices, offer free/reduced internet options, technology support and parent orientations for a successful school year.

On September 8, when campuses reopen for in-person instruction, nearly 43,000 students will remain in virtual instruction through the District’s Katy Virtual Academy (KVA). 

For more information on the upcoming school year in Katy ISD, visit their website.

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