Katy South - Fulshear Edition | April 2024

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Katy South Fulshear Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 8 APRIL 23MAY 21, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

AIR QUALITY

New EPA standards could impact Katy area

Experts said transportation-related sources can contribute to ne particulate matter, a pollutant the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently tightened standards on, pushing Harris County to nonattainment.

KELLY SCHAFLERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

doesn’t meet standards by the 2032 deadline. “Overall, if we are not meeting the Clean Air Act standards for particle pollution for the region, that would put our whole region [in nonattain- ment]—not just Harris County, but typically it’s the eight-county area that is not going to be designated as being in attainment with the Clean Air Act standards,” she said.

monitoring stations, which doesn’t include Fort Bend County. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality ocials said Fort Bend County meets the EPA’s previous standards for this type of pollution, but environmental experts said air pollution is still an issue across the Greater Houston area. Grace Lewis, senior health scientist at the Environmental Defense Fund, said Harris County’s nonattainment status could aect the region if it

BY MELISSA ENAJE & KELLY SCHAFLER

Harris County and nine other Texas counties don’t meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s new national air quality standards for ne particulate matter, a pollutant that federal ocials said can have dangerous and costly health eects. According to the EPA, the national air quality data only reects information from the 119 U.S. counties pollution levels are collected by the EPA’s

CONTINUED ON 27

Also in this issue

Impacts: Crave Cookies to debut rst Houston-area shop (Page 6)

Government: Aaron Gro reects on Fulshear mayoral term (Page 11)

Election: Q&As with candidates on the May ballot (Page 12)

Education: Guide to colleges in the Katy area (Page 17)

Care you need. One convenient location. A variety of health care services for you and your family is always close by. Our Convenient Care Centers offer primary care, imaging, physical therapy and a 24/7 ER. Schedule an appointment at any of our seven locations. memorialhermann.org/ccc

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

RESORT- STYLE Living Katy IS COMING TO

SUNTERRA LAGOON AMENITY CENTER

THIS DRAWING DEPICTS CONCEPTUAL LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. FINAL DESIGN SOLUTIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

LAZY RIVER Opening 2024!

CRYSTAL LAGOON Opening 2025!

299-22-206 13 SPLASH PAD Opening 2025!

TENNIS & Pickleball

Come Visit Our New Welcome Center! 27106 Shadow Dune Drive Katy, Texas 77493 Sunterra has been named the #1 selling master-planned community in Texas* and has two amazing Amenity Villages now under construction—The Retreat featuring a Lazy River and Sol Club featuring a Crystal Lagoon! Visit our Welcome Center and our homebuilders to learn more about the homes we have for sale and rent in the beautiful community of Sunterra.

Explore Future Amenities!

New Homes $300s-$800s SUNTERRATX.COM

*#1 Ranking based on RCLCO 2023 year end report for top selling master-planned communities. Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Lagoon and Lazy River Amenity Village designs and construction are subject to first obtaining the appropriate federal, state and local permits and approvals. Features and renderings shown for the Sunterra Lagoon and Lazy River Amenity Villages are representative only and Starwood Land reserves the right, without notice to or approval by the Buyer, to make changes or substitutions of equal or better quality for any features, materials and equipment. The location, sizes, and grand opening dates of the amenity villages and features are subject to change without notice and subject to feasibility studies and local government approvals. 03/24.

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

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All the wow is open now. Like 14 new models. New floorplans.

The new Lakeside Landing rec center. And the new

Summer Memories are Better at the Y.

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Welcome Center, where you’ll start your tour. Come see. www.elyson.com/wow

With a variety of engaging activities for youth and families, motivating fitness programs and affordable membership options, a picture perfect summer is waiting for you at the YMCA!

• Swim Lessons and Swim Team • Day Camp and Teen Camp • Overnight Camp • Sports Leagues and Clinics • Group Exercise Classes

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Newland is proud to be a part of Brookfield Properties. We are one of the largest developers of mixed-use communities in the United States. With our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. newlandco.com | nashcommunities.com

Learn more at ymcahouston.org

Homes at Elyson ® are built and sold by home builders (“Builders”) unaffiliated with NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”), Newland Real Estate Group LLC (“Newland”) or their related entities. Buyers should review the purchase agreement, public offering statement., and other offering materials provided by the seller prior to signing any contract to purchase a home. Details on the prospective development are provided for informational purposes only and there is no guarantee that the final development will match the developer’s vision. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. Copyright © 2024 NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”). All Rights Reserved. No reproductions, distribution, or unauthorized transmission of any portion is permitted without written permission of Fee Owner. (2/24)

YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

Impacts

• Opened March 4 • 98 W. Grand Parkway S., Ste. 160, Katy • www.alohapokeco.com

BECKENDORFF RD.

CLAY RD.

GEORGE BUSH PARK • 20995 Katy Freeway, Katy • www.dunkindonuts.com 3 Dutch Bros Coffee The menu includes specialty coffee, smoothies, teas, freezes, lemonades, Dutch Bros’ signature energy drink and nitro cold brew coffee. • Opened March 22 • 5840 N. Fry Road, Katy • www.dutchbros.com 4 Best Stop Cajun Market The shop is a combination specialty grocery store and Creole restaurant, serving biscuit boudin breakfast sandwiches as well as po’boys and hamburgers. • Opened Dec. 12 • 806 Katy Fort Bend Road, Ste. 400, Katy • www.beststopinscott.com 5 Dunkin’ The national franchise offers coffee drinks, breakfast items, doughnuts, pastries and a coffee tap system. • Opened March 30 6 The Little Bookstore Patrons will find bilingual books written by The Little Bookstore owner Gabriela Gotay and other authors. The books range in themes, styles, types of characters and targeted age range. • Opened Jan. 20 7 Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken and Wings The eatery serves Nashville hot chicken of varying spice levels, chicken sandwiches, chicken fingers, chicken and waffles, and loaded fries. • Opened March 3 • 22603 Morton Ranch Road, Ste. 130, Katy • www.hangryjoesmortonranch.com • 6729 S. Fry Road, Ste. W1, Katy • www.shopthelittlebookstore.com

BLUE GRAMA DR.

3 PLANTATION GROVE TR.

MORTON RD.

MORTON RANCH RD.

KATY FORT BEND RD.

17 7

2855

99 TOLL

FRANZ RD.

HARDWELL DR.

CANE ISLAND PKWY.

KATY MILLS CIR.

TAMARRON PT.

K I N G S L A N

TAMARRON PARK DR.

PRAIRIE PKWY.

Katy

HIGHLAND KNOLLS DR.

1463

CROSS CREEK BEND LN.

FULSHEAR BEND DR.

S N E R

TEXAS HERITAGE PKWY.

1463

359

99 TOLL

1093

FULSHEAR BEND DR.

F R Y R D .

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Fulshear

• 23101 Beckendorff Road, Katy • www.ivykids.com

Now open

1093

FULSHEAR GASTON RD.

359 1 Ivy Kids of Peek The early learning center practices a multi-intelligence- based curriculum, before- and after-school care, toddler programs, summer camps, and enrichment programs. • Opened in February Fulshear

723 2 Aloha Poke Co. Customers first pick their base protein followed by numerous toppings that range from edamame to pineapple, then top off the bowl with homemade sauces.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

8 Home Depot The home improvement company sells various home renovation items, including power tools, paint, lawn care items, furniture, kitchenware and decor. • Opened April 11 • 133 Cane Island Parkway, Katy • www.homedepot.com

• 4131 Woods Road, Fulshear • www.fulsheartexas.gov

Now open

14 Boardwalk Square The luxury-style apartments from developer Sueba USA will include 353 units in studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts with custom interiors. • Opening fall 2025 • 125 Prairie Parkway, Katy • www.suebausa.com/property/boardwalk-square

Coming soon

9 Fulshear Central The development will break ground in the third quarter of 2024 and feature office condos, retail, a large green space for events and walking trails, per a news release. • Opening in 2025 • FM 1093 near Texas Heritage Parkway, Fulshear • www.fulshearcentral.com 10 Cafe 11 The menu will feature authentic Hong Kong dishes with 11 McDonald’s The chain restaurant is scheduled to break ground in July at the Katy Park retail development. • Opening TBD • Morton Ranch Road at Katy Hockley Cutoff Road, Katy • www.mcdonalds.com 12 Cold Stone Creamery The international franchise serves ice cream cakes and cupcakes, ice cream sandwiches, shakes and sorbet. • Opening in May • 27123 Fulshear Bend Drive, Ste. D200, Fulshear • www.coldstonecreamery.com western influence. • Opening in May • 23015 Colonial Parkway, Ste. A105, Katy • Website coming soon 13 Eagle Landing Park The city of Fulshear’s new park will feature soccer fields, playground equipment, restroom and concession facilities, and a covered patio area. • Opening spring 2025

Relocations

15 Brooks’ Place The food truck known for its craft barbecue, burgers and catering services relocated from 18029 FM 529, Cypress, to Wildcatter Saloon in Katy. • Relocated March 14 • 26913 Katy Freeway, Ste. 250, Katy • www.lifeat250.com

17 Crave Cookies The Utah-based cookie franchise is set to open its first Houston-area shop in Katy, after press time. The bakery is known for its gourmet cookie menu that rotates weekly with six large cookies, one of which is always the signature milk chocolate chip cookie. • Opened April 20 • 2716 W. Grand Parkway N., Ste. 120, Katy • www.cravecookies.com

In the news

16 Grange Johnson Development broke ground on the 1,150-acre community on March 22. It will have about 2,400 homes, and homebuilders will open the community’s first phase by early 2025. • Morton Road at FM 2855, Katy • www.johnsondevelopment.com/mpc_grange Drama Kids International Davila Hernandez purchased the northwest Houston location in January. Drama Kids International offers theater summer camps and classes for children in Katy ISD and other school districts. • www.dramakids.com/cypress-spring-tomball-tx

suites. Future guests can start booking reservations. • Opening Oct. 18

• 1000 Great Wolf Way, Webster • www.greatwolf.com/webster

Closings

18 Dozier’s BBQ The beloved Fulshear restaurant, which opened in 1957, served as a restaurant, meat market and wild game processor. • Closed March 30

Worth the trip

Great Wolf Lodge The Webster resort will feature an indoor water park, interactive attractions and 532 rooms and themed

• 8222 FM 359, Fulshear • www.doziersbbq.com

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

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Government

BY KELLY SCHAFLER & AUBREY VOGEL

Search rm to nd next city manager On April 2, Fulshear City Council approved a $26,950 contract with Baker Tilly US, LLP to serve as the executive search rm for the city manager position, pending legal review. The city received 11 proposals, which were reviewed by a selection committee that was appointed by council Feb. 20. Baker Tilly sta will be responsible for all aspects of the city manager search, but the nal candidate must be approved by City Council. Since former City Manager Jack Harper was red Feb. 12, Assistant City Manager Zach Goodlander has served as interim city manager while the search progresses. Looking forward Goodlander said he plans to apply for the position, but city ocials said he’ll have to follow the same process as other candidates.

Foundation sells 1,500 acres of George Ranch The George Foundation’s board of trustees voted to sell a 1,500-acre parcel of George Ranch to Johnson Development for a master-planned community, according to a March 18 news release from the foundation. The land purchase will help the foundation continue donating to Fort Bend County nonprots and providing scholarships, The George Foundation CEO Roger Adamson said. Details on Johnson Development’s new commu- nity near FM 2977 at Koeblen Road haven’t been shared, and a timeline for build-out isn’t available, according to the release. The history Several properties in the county make up George Ranch, which was roughly 21,000 acres before the land sale. Of that, 475 acres at 10215 FM 762, Richmond, are reserved for the historic area known

1 The George Ranch

2759

762

JOHNSON DEVELOPMENT TRACT

2977

SOURCE: THE GEORGE FOUNDATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

as The George Ranch, formerly called the George Ranch Historical Park, Adamson said. The land sale won’t aect this property. The George Ranch oers tours and educational opportunities where visitors can learn about the ranch’s history, according to the website. What’s next While this is the most signicant land sale in the foundation’s 80-year history, Adamson said selling other tracts will likely be part of the foundation’s nancial strategy in the future.

Online hub launches for Fulshear small businesses The Fulshear Economic Development Corpo- ration partnered with The Cannon, a regional business hub, to launch on April 2 a free initiative to support and grow small businesses.

“Our hope and dream is that eventually ... we’ll be able to create an actual physical entrepreneur hub here in Fulshear to provide businesses a space to grow

The organization is not only for those who already have a small business but also for those who may be interested in starting one, even if they do not already have an idea, he said. Next steps Yelvington said they hope the organization will eventually have a physical location for collaboration.

together, connect with each other and bounce ideas o of each other.” MAT YELVINGTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FULSHEAR FAST TRACK

Community members can join Fulshear Fast Track’s online community providing a place for business owners to connect with one another and provide support, said Mat Yelvington, managing director of Fulshear Fast Track.

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KATY SOUTH FULSHEAR EDITION

Government

Crews work to install segments in tunnels in the A1 and A2 segments of the Surface Water Supply Project.

COURTESY WEST HARRIS COUNTY REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY

Progress continues on $1.2B surface water pipeline

Cross Creek West, a new community in Fulshear, is relaxation and refinement all rolled up into one, with a peaceful natural landscape, homes by award-winning builders and a friendly atmosphere that will have you knowing your neighbors in no time.

Residents and businesses in the Katy and Fulshear areas can expect to begin using more surface water as early as 2026. With a regional requirement to reduce groundwater consump- tion, the West Harris County Regional Water Authority part- nered with the North Fort Bend Water Authority in 2011 to con- struct the more than $1.2 billion Surface Water Supply Project. The project—funded by bonds that will be paid by the entities selling water to customers—will bring surface water west from Lake Houston with over 55 miles of pipeline. The update The project’s Kinder Morgan Segment from Fry Road to I-10/ Grand Parkway is set to begin mid-2024 and will primarily bring the water to the Katy area. This segment is set to be completed by 2026, WHCRWA President Eric Hansen said in an email. As residents begin to use more surface water, the subsidence rate should decline, which can reduce the chances of ooding, WHCRWA

ocials said. Subsidence is the gradual sinking of land caused by the removal of groundwater from aquifers, causing settling, accord- ing to the Surface Water Supply Project website. What they’re saying Katy and Fulshear sta are pre- paring for when they will begin receiving more surface water, city ocials said. Residents may notice a change in the taste of water as the tran- sition begins, city ocials said. Fulshear residents may begin to notice less of a chlorine odor and taste, Public Works Director Sharon Valiante said. Meanwhile, the WHCRWA is studying how future water rates will be aected. What’s next Upon meeting the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District’s 60% groundwater reduction requirement in 2025, ocials said the WHCRWA will evaluate internal water line routes to serve additional areas as they move forward to meet the 80% reduction required by 2035.

• 8 stunning models from 5 award-winning builders • Miles of planned trails & pathways • Waterhole Amenity Center opening Summer 2024 • Lamar CISD schools—onsite elementary opening Fall ‘25 • Easy access to Texas Heritage Pkwy, Westpark Tollway, I-10 and 99

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AUBREY VOGEL

Gro said other council candidates convinced him to run for mayor.

AUBREY VOGELCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Gro and his family moved to Fulshear in 2012.

Fulshear Mayor Aaron Gro’s mayoral term will end this summer after the May 4 election.

AUBREY VOGELCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COURTESY AARON GROFF

Fulshear Mayor Aaron Gro reects on 6 years serving the community After a group of 22 residents asked him to run for City Council in 2018, Fulshear Mayor Aaron Gro said it was other council candidates who convinced him to put his name in the hat for mayor instead. Six years later, Gro’s mayoral term will end this summer after the May 4 election, where three

candidates are vying for the role. The results

facts and trust the process. He also said there are a few areas city ocials should stay on top of, including water, mobility and economic development. What happens next? After his time as mayor ends, Gro will grow his co-owned title company, InFocus Title, which opened in 2021 while he was mayor. As for his political future, Gro said there aren’t any government roles he has his eyes on; although, he said he’s going to take the summer to think and pray if there’s one where his skill sets could be useful and meet a need.

During his three terms as mayor—the maximum allowed—Gro said he worked to bring leadership and stability after seeing discontent from resi- dents, City Council and the previous mayor. He said his biggest accomplishments include: • Creating a sustainable tax rate for the city • Developing a new city hall building Oering input As a new mayor steps in to lead the city, Gro said he advises them to be approachable, lead with

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KATY SOUTH FULSHEAR EDITION

Election

Voter Guide

2024

*INCUMBENT

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 22: First day of early voting April 23: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 30: Last day of early voting May 4: Election day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 6 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Fort Bend County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

Katy ISD board of trustees, Position 6

What are your top qualifications for the trustee position? Servant leadership, trust, excellence, kindness and wisdom. I have been a part of guiding the exemplary success of Katy ISD as it rapidly grew from 40,000 to 95,000 students and 13,000 employees. Success isn’t an accident, it is the outcome of vision, planning, careful execution and evaluation.

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them? More opportunities for college and career students, by constantly evaluating the needs of businesses and future job needs. In a time when teachers are leaving the profession, we must improve their workload and show them the respect they deserve. Find a solution to discipline problems in classrooms because all children …

Rebecca Fox* Occupation: public speaker Experience: trustee, 18 years; three-time board president; board vice president; board secretary; board treasurer www.rebeccafox4katy.org

I have national and local civic experience, serving five years in the USMC and seven years as co-founder and board chairman of the nonprofit NextOp. I am an experienced business leader and technology entrepreneur currently serving as CEO of Medbridge, one of the nation’s largest providers of physical therapy software.

The biggest challenges facing the district are teacher retention and fiscal accountability. I would address them by ensuring that teachers are supported by board-level policies that reinforce discipline in the classrooms and by forcing the administration to make spending trade-offs to stay within budget.

Donovan Campbell Occupation: CEO, Medbridge

Experience: father of two district students; technology entrepreneur & New York Times bestselling author; U.S. Marine Corps veteran www.campbell4katyisd.org

Katy ISD board of trustees, Position 7

What are your top qualifications for the trustee position? I am a devoted advocate for Katy ISD and the people within the district. I have the time, willingness and enthusiasm that it takes to serve. My top qualifications are organization, time management, empathy, ability to know which questions to ask and when, intelligence, flexibility, open-mindedness, and kindness.

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them? 1. Katy ISD is a fast-growing school district; 2. Our students are underfunded by the state of Texas; 3. Teacher shortages; and 4. The education gap. We need to continuously look for ways to increase funding and/or create programs to take care of these needs.

Dawn Champagne* Occupation: Retail merchandising Experience: six years on the Katy ISD school board, 20 years volunteering in Katy ISD/community Facebook: @Dawn Champagne Katy ISD board of trustees David Olson Occupation: chemical engineer/ account manager, BASF Corporation Experience: parent of two Katy ISD students; member of two high school fine arts booster clubs www.olson4katyisd.org

My wife is an employee of the district; I have a 2023 graduate of Katy ISD and a current sophomore. I hear the day-to-day challenges and issues from an employee and a student perspective. My 30-plus years in the private sector brings a fresh perspective to public service.

Teacher retention and fiscal responsibility. The district needs uniform and effective student discipline so teachers and staff feel safe and respected in the school. The public expects the district to make necessary spending decisions like one’s residents have faced in the three years of high inflation.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY DAVE MANNING & AUBREY VOGEL

*INCUMBENT

Fulshear mayor

What is your top priority if elected to represent the citizens of Fulshear?

What do you think is the most pressing issue for local residents, and what will you do to address it?

My top priorities are stabilizing city hall; responsible and sustainable economic development of the downtown district; water and wastewater infrastructure; mobility; drainage and flood mitigation; and recreational facilities for youth baseball and softball.

The most pressing issues for local residents vary by geographic location. Flood mitigation and drainage; mobility; water quality and water pressure; and poor cellular data coverage. The last 12 years of unprecedented growth is the key factor for all of these issues. All are being addressed via various initiatives.

Joel M. Patterson Occupation: retired, oil and gas Experience: U.S. Navy veteran, City Council District 4 since 2018, mayor pro tem, Fulshear Economic Development Corporation board 281-734-8510 Don McCoy Occupation: resident/CEO, Fulshear Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Experience: leadership, business advocacy, community development, creative marketing, promotions 469-688-3269 Dominic Giametta Jr. Occupation: sales executive Experience: business leader and organizer www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61557257547659

If elected, my top priority is to truly represent the citizens of Fulshear by actively listening to and understanding their wants and needs. I will prioritize genuine engagement, ensuring that decisions are made based on the community’s voices, not my own agenda.

The most pressing issue for local residents is likely our rapid growth. To address it, I’ll prioritize sustainable development, attracting and retaining businesses, improving infrastructure and enhancing quality of life. But first, I’ll listen to residents to ensure our actions align with their needs and aspirations.

[The] mobilization of some of the necessary plans for the town. We have great ideas for what Fulshear can become, we just need to get off dead center and get going. From parks and recreation to historical preservation, our downtown district and water infrastructure.

The rapid increase in population and what that does to our community. It is a great thing to see Fulshear grow, but the unsustainable pace we’ve created coupled with a lack of infrastructure creates both a safety issue and pushes us further from the goal of creating a prosperous small town.

Fulshear City Council at-large

What is your top priority if elected to represent the citizens of Fulshear?

What do you think is the most pressing issue for local residents, and what will you do to address it?

1. The recent approval by [Texas Department of Transportation] to construct a flyover for the Westpark Tollway over our downtown district. 2. Increasing sales tax is critical to the long-term financial sustainability of the city of Fulshear. This allows aging infrastructure to be less dependent on residential property taxes.

Infrastructure is a very pressing issue. I know City Council addressed this several months ago, but it is imperative that all opportunities, including moratoriums, be utilized to slow growth so the city infrastructure and school districts can “catch up” to meet the needs of the residents who already live here.

Kim Stacy Occupation: insurance broker Experience: eight-plus years Fort Bend County Emergency Services District No. 4, two years Fulshear Economic Development Corp. B www.kimstacy.com Jason Knape* Occupation: senior director, Global Customer Support, PROS Inc. Experience: conservative; community leader and volunteer; executive business leader www.knapeforfulshear.com

Selection of new city manager. Like any business, the city manager is the CEO and council is the board. It is vital we select an individual with drive, passion for the city, outstanding leadership, and the knowledge and experience to lead the day-to-day operations.

Growth. Controlling residential growth is key to keep Fulshear, Fulshear. Accelerating business growth is key to provide citizens with the products and services they expect while providing a diversified tax base. I will ensure the policies of the city always include this in their context/direction.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

THE SUN IS SETTING

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Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. ©2024 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY DAVE MANNING, HANNAH NORTON & KELLY SCHAFLER

Katy ISD could face projected $13M shortfall Katy ISD officials must make budget reductions as the district moves toward the 2024-25 school year, a move spurred by lack of state legislative action to increase public school funding. During the board work study meeting March 18, district staff told KISD trustees the district could face a projected $13 million shortfall in the fiscal year 2024-25 budget. “[Like] many other school districts, our district is approaching an increasingly difficult task of maintaining balanced budgets year after year,” Superintendent Ken Gregorski said in a March 19 email to parents. “The state’s inaction on school funding has compelled districts throughout Texas to operate on deficit budgets.” Inflationary pressures, federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funding expiring, enrollment growth and changes to state program funding also contributed, officials said.

School vouchers still priority for Abbott Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick expressed confidence lawmakers will approve a private school voucher plan next year. Speaking March 20 at the conservative Texas Public Policy Foundation’s annual conference in Austin, Abbott said school voucher supporters were “on the threshold of success” after several anti-voucher Republicans were unseated or sent to tight runoffs in the March 5 primary election. Looking ahead Patrick said he expected lawmakers to adopt a voucher plan in February 2025. The 89th legislative session is scheduled to begin Jan. 14. Vouchers were one of Abbott’s seven emergency priorities for the 2023 session.

Taking action

Katy ISD staff plan to take several measures to offset rising expenditures, including: Modifying some program models to create efficiencies Phasing out some programs District staff will prioritize: • Retaining all teachers and staff • Protecting core student programs and services • Ensuring standards for academic performance remain

SOURCE: KATY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The context KISD Chief Financial Officer Christopher Smith said district staff can offset the shortfall with the general fund balance. However, Smith said he’s hopeful the district will recover that deficit and even have a surplus after a property value audit is completed. What’s next KISD trustees will meet over the next few months regarding the 2024-25 budget. Trustees will adopt the budget in August.

Katy ISD OKs $23M in campus repairs, renovations

Upcoming renovations

The nine projects are funded by 2021 bond funds.

LLC will renovate Katy High School, and Cimarron and Nottingham elementary schools. Meanwhile, Beynon Sports Surfaces Inc. will resurface tracks at five campuses: Seven Lakes and Obra D. Tompkins high schools; and Morton Ranch, West Memorial and WoodCreek junior high schools. Projects are set to be completed by August 2024, per district documents.

Katy ISD trustees approved $23.07 million in campus repairs and renovations for nine facilities to be funded by the May 2021 bond. The details District officials chose Anslow Bryant Construc- tion LTD Katy Junior High renovations, which include adding more science classrooms and pro- viding new spaces for programs. Stewart Builders

Total: $23.07M

Track repairs at five campuses: $2.19M Four campus renovations: $20.88M

SOURCE: KATY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON AT KATY Explore programs from the UH Cullen College of Engineering and the UH Gessner College of Nursing

ENGINEERING ACADEMY

NURSING

ENGINEERING

FIND US ON:

UH.EDU/KATY 22400 Grand Circle Blvd. Katy, TX 77449

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Education

BY HANNAH NORTON

Higher Education Guide

2024

Quotes of note

What to know about the new FAFSA

“Financial aid is extremely important, particularly in this day and age, with the high cost of education. So you’re going to have to be an educated consumer.” JACK WALLACE, THE DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS FOR YREFY

Current and prospective college students applying for financial aid will likely have a more streamlined experience with the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Mandated by Congress, the new form includes fewer questions and a new formula to determine aid eligibility. The U.S. Department of Education launched the redesigned application in late December— nearly three months later than normal—and it is now available online 24/7. Students must fill out the form to qualify for federal student loans, grants, work-study programs and some scholarships. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s priority financial aid application deadline was March 15, but individual schools may offer aid on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants will answer less than 50 questions for the new FAFSA, down from 108. The form takes around an hour to complete, but some people may answer as few as 18 questions depending on their individual circumstances. Officials said 610,000 more students from low-income backgrounds will qualify for federal Pell Grants. This includes over 51,000 Texans, the department of education reported.

The 2024-25 FAFSA was redesigned after Congress passed the FUTURE Act and the FAFSA Simplification Act. Here are some key changes to the application: A streamlined application process

All “contributors,” including parents, stepparents and spouses, must provide financial information.

“We have heard from students and families that the new FAFSA form is a better experience that’s easier to complete.” RICHARD CORDRAY, FEDERAL STUDENT AID CHIEF

The Internal Revenue Service will transfer students’ and their families’ tax information directly to their FAFSA application.

A new Student Aid Index formula will determine applicants’ eligibility.

Next steps

Families with multiple students in college will no longer qualify for extra aid, known as a “sibling discount.” Applicants may list up to 20 colleges or universities on their application. They were previously limited to 10.

The 2024-25 FAFSA will be available online through June 30, 2025, but many states and schools set earlier deadlines. Under Texas law, high school seniors are required to complete the FAFSA, a state financial aid application or an opt-out form to graduate. Future applications should open Oct. 1.

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

Education

Through a partnership with Google, Houston Community College offers a free accelerated ver- sion of Google’s “Grow with Google” technology certificate program for up to 500 students. HCC officials have reached out to local public school districts in southwest Houston to share HCC, Google partner to offer free technology certificates over four-year university graduates due to their amount of practical experience in the field, solving problems as part of the curriculum, rather than programs more focused on theoretical knowledge. “In four months, you’re going to get an indus- try credential that puts you in the workplace, ... gives you a skill to get a job,” Fleishman said. “They can get a credential, they can make money. They can get another credential, they can make more money.” Explained 1 Google Data Analytics 2 Google Cybersecurity

Google courses The four Google courses are hosted on the education platform www.coursera.org and are as follows:

3 Google IT Support 4 Google UX Design

information about the program with administrators, said Joe Fleishman, associate dean of the Digital & Information Technology Center of Excellence, which works with the Workforce and Career depart- ment on the program in its Southwest College. The program was announced in February, and 350 spots were open as of late March for the late-April course to local high school students, continuing education students and working professionals, Fleishman said. Who it’s for Fleishman said when a local internet technol- ogy company owner visited the college, he said he prefers to hire community college students

SOURCE: HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What’s next The program is available for students 16 and older as part of Houston Community College’s continuing education program. Once HCC is able to fill the 500 course spots the college will receive 500 more spots from Google this fall. The Southwest College, one of six in the system, offers programs at the Galleria, Brays Oaks, Stafford and Missouri City campuses.

While the Google certificate program is offered for free, each course is valued at $300 per course, Fleishman said. The four courses give students the opportunity to earn in-demand IT certifications and skills in a short time frame, Fleishman said. HCC’s version of the Google courses are self-paced like Google’s offering, but HCC’s courses can be completed in four months rather than six.

BY ASIA ARMOUR, DAVE MANNING & KELLY SCHAFLER

TSTC to expand auto technician offerings Texas State Technical College broke ground on a roughly $54 million expansion in late Novem- ber to bring the 80-acre Transportation Center of Excellence to its Rosenberg campus, college officials said. The college offers technical career training to the Houston region from its 160-acre campus. The context When the new center opens in fall 2025, it will allow the vocational college to grow its diesel equipment technology program and add two new programs—automotive technology as well as auto collision and management technology, TSTC Communication Specialist Isaac Dayley said. The expansion is driven by the college’s growing enrollment and the workforce demands in the region shown by labor market studies, campus Provost Bryan Bowling said. In the automotive

WCJC will add health building to Richmond Wharton County Junior College has an over 100,000-square-foot facility for the health care professions at its Richmond campus on the horizon, officials said. The college is in the planning stages of a two- or three-story health professions building meant to cater to students vying for licenses in vocational nursing or emergency medical service training, which began at the Richmond campus this spring, President Betty McCrohan said. What’s next She said she anticipates construction will take up to two years once groundbreaking commences, and she is eyeing a 2026-27 opening. The increased health care pro- gramming coincides with opening the new building, McCrohan said.

TSTC student enrollment growth TSTC’s enrollment is rising, and the new building will allow the college to accept 400-500 more students when it opens in fall 2025. Spring enrollment

703

474

442

521

464

399

2019 2020 2021

2022 2023 2024

SOURCE: TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

industry specifically, this demand is caused by an aging workforce retiring and a larger need for electric vehicle technicians, he said. “We do what basically makes our graduates irresistible for our industry partners,” he said.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY AUBREY VOGEL

UH nursing centers receive accreditation

The features

The centers feature technology that allows students to practice techniques learned in lecture before heading to local hospitals for clinicals, Tart said in an interview. The Katy facility mirrors areas students will see in the hospitals they practice, including: • Four high delity simulation rooms with life-like mannequins • Two bays with 10 beds each • Eight assessment rooms • Medication room • Debrieng room Tart said students are able to rene skills including head-to-toe assessments, pediatric care, and birth and death simulations, due to the expansiveness of the facility.

The University of Houston’s Andy and Barbara Gessner College of Nursing received an accreditation in December for its nursing simulators in Katy and Sugar Land. The HCA Houston Healthcare Nursing Simulation Center located at UH at Katy and the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Nursing Simulation Center at UH at Sugar Land are the rst and only Greater Houston college facilities to receive this accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, said Kathryn Tart, dean of the college of nursing. “Faced with a nursing shortage, our state-of- the-art simulation centers help us educate more nurses where clinical excellence and leadership are central,” Tart said in a university news release. With the accreditation, the two UH centers are named among the top educational facilities where medical students and professionals can practice performing health care scenarios, according to the Society for Simulation in Healthcare website. The accreditation for both facilities will last ve years.

Katy nursing students can use the center to practice skills learned in the classroom.

COURTESY THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

About the program

BSN enrollment at Katy campus

The Andy and Barbara Gessner College of Nursing instructional site at Katy opened in fall 2019, bringing its rst cohort of 16 students. Since its inception, the Katy program has grown to 116 students this spring semester. Tart said she would like to see the program grow to 240 students at the Katy location.

116 students enrolled in spring 2024 semester

120

UH at Katy

99 TOLL

GRAND CIRCLE BLVD.

Fall 2019

Fall 2020

Fall 2021

Fall 2022

Fall 2023

GRAND WEST BLVD.

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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