Katy ISD Establishes New School Board, Honors Students with Military Commitments
- ncookclark
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KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
May 13, 2025
By Natalie Cook Clark
At last night’s Katy ISD Board of Trustee meeting a new board member was sworn in and the newly established board elected officers. The District also honored students committing to military service in a special presentation.
Newly elected and re-elected school board members were sworn into office during last night’s Katy ISD Board of Trustee meeting. The District also honored students committing to military service in a special presentation that filled the meeting limiting spectators to standing room only.
James Cross and Lance Redmon both took their oaths of service last night. James Cross was elected to Position 1, and Lance Redmon was re-elected to Position 2. Both join the board of seven: Rebecca Fox, Dawn Champagne, Morgan Calhoun, Mary Ellen Cuzela, and Amy Thieme. Katy ISD Board of Trustees serve three-year terms.
As custom after the board election, the trustees elected amongst themselves new officer positions. Lance Redmon will serve as president.
"I am honored to have been selected to serve as President of our School Board. I am fully aware of the responsibility and trust that comes with this position," says Lance Redmon. "I think the first items of focus must be returning our board focus to student success and adopting a balanced budget. In addition to these immediate priorities, I believe that a strong, effective board is essential for student achievement and the overall success of our school district."
Rebecca Fox is vice president and Dawn Champagne is secretary.
New member James Cross says that his top goals will be to listen and learn and focus on student success.
“What are we (as a board) doing to maximize student success?” asks Cross. “We need to make students and staff valued and give them a voice. To be trusted stewards of our taxpayer dollars. And finally, listen and learn some more.”
"As I set my sights on the future of our district, I see a healthy, cohesive board that, despite their differences, chooses to work together as they partner with our superintendent, district staff, parents, and community to provide the best opportunities for every student," says Redmon.
Honoring Student Commitment
Last night, Katy ISD along with city leaders, celebrated the Class of 2025’s 132 graduating seniors who committed to military service. The outstanding students were accepted to attend the nation’s military academies or serve in one of America’s military branches or national/state guards and reserves.
“Today, we are surrounded by individuals who embody service, sacrifice and a deep commitment to something greater than themselves,” says Dr. Ken Gregorski, Katy ISD superintendent.
District staff who themselves military veterans called students forward for their chosen branch. The Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force and the National Guard and Reserves for the U.S. and Texas.
City of Katy Mayor Dusty Thiele, Mayor Pro-Tem Chris Harris, Council Member Rory Robertson and American Legion Vice Commander Emeritus Phil Malsbary were present to mark the occasion and recognize the students’ commitment.
This is the first time the District has held such a ceremony and it filled the room, which was standing room only. Trustee Dawn Champagne had this idea during last year’s graduation ceremonies.
“I wanted our premier school district to do more to honor these students,” says Champagne. “After getting the support from the city I met with Dr. Gregorski and the administration put together the event.”
Champagne praised how well the event came together.
“Thank you to all involved and especially thank you to our young men and women who have agreed to serve,” says Champagne.
Boundary Modification Approved
As the Katy area continues to grow and change, boundary modifications are needed. Last night, the Board approved a boundary modification. A survey was sent out to families and the District reported that 74% favored the change. The transition will affect Land Use Zones (LUZ) 60C and 60D and move students in those areas from Cinco Ranch Junior High to Tays Junior High. The change will take effect this August.
Recognizing Student Success
The Board also recognized the outstanding achievements of Katy ISD student-athletes at the 2025 UIL 6A Track and Field State Meet, as well as this year’s valedictorians and salutatorians from each high school.