Katy ISD Honors Long Serving Educators and Retirees
- ncookclark
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
April 3, 2025
By Natalie Cook Clark
Katy ISD honored employees who have met milestones along with retirees in a night full of humor and talent provided by District staff. This year’s longest serving educators celebrated 45 years each of service.
Katy ISD celebrated long-serving staff this week including two educators who have been with the District for 45 years. Hundreds gathered to honor the remarkable dedication, hard work and passion with heartfelt tributes. The theme of “Tuesday Night Live” brought humor along with performances by talent District employees.
Employees who have served students, families, staff, and the wider community for at least 15 years were all honored.
“Tonight is about the educators and staff who have dedicated themselves to this district year after year,” says Dr. Ken Gregorski, Katy ISD Superintendent and a 20-year honoree. “Whether you are in the classroom inspiring students, working behind the scenes to support learning or ensuring our campuses run safely and efficiently, your contributions are invaluable.”
JoAnn Tilton and Melba Horalica, this year’s longest-serving members—at an incredible 45 years each — were applauded for their devotion. They were praised by District colleagues for their exceptional steadfastness and commitment to Katy ISD.
Talented District educators served as the Tuesday Night Live “cast,” including the evening's emcee Joey Watkins, Morton Ranch High School’s theatre director; Brittany Walker, Morton Ranch’s artistic theatre director; Mark McManus, Tompkins High School’s theatre director; and John Liner, Freeman High School’s assistant band director and director of the Katy ISD Elite Jazz Band.
“Tonight’s event is about more than just years of service; it’s about recognizing the lasting impact each of you has had on students, your colleagues and the community,” says Victor Perez, Katy ISD Board President. “Through your commitment and passion, you have helped build a legacy of excellence that continues to grow year after year.”
Katy ISD has a rich, storied legacy and enjoys a long history of community spirit and pride that includes many long-serving educators, several of whom have been honored as school namesakes. The District annually honors its retirees and staff with decades of service and commends those who remain dedicated to the students and staff of Katy ISD.