What started as a small act of kindness by Katy ISD police officers over 20 years ago has grown into one of the most impactful holiday outreach efforts in the region. This year, the Katy ISD Santa Cops program brought holiday joy to 740 students across more than 400 families, ensuring children across the district would have gifts to open and memories to cherish.
The annual Santa Cops initiative, led by the Katy ISD Police Department, now spans the entire district, thanks to an army of dedicated sponsors, school counselors, volunteers, and staff. The effort begins months before the holidays, with planning kicking off as early as September. Counselors at elementary campuses help identify students in need, while district employees and community groups step up to serve as sponsors.
Each child’s wishlist includes their age, interests, and favorite activities, allowing sponsors to shop for personalized and age-appropriate gifts. “We start coordinating as early as September,” said Katy ISD Police Services Specialist Cathy Andrews. “Elementary school counselors identify students in need, and then we reach out to District staff to serve as sponsors. The response is overwhelming every year.”…