The Katy ISD Police Department added new officers and promoted others to detective and sergeant in a formal swearing-in ceremony, with more than 97,000 students set to return to campus Wednesday, Aug. 12, for the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

The district announced the ceremony Sunday, Aug. 9, saying it recently welcomed new police officers and recognized promotions during its Swearing-In and Promotional Ceremony. The 97,000-plus figure reflects 2025-2026 enrollment; the district has not released updated numbers for the new school year.

The staffing additions come as the district maintains what it describes as a multilayered security model: armed police officers and security guards at every junior high and high school, and armed security guards at every elementary campus, according to district safety materials.

Police Chief David Rider leads the department.

The ceremony follows a busy summer for school safety planning. On July 16, the district hosted its annual Emergency Responder Forum, bringing together law enforcement, fire and emergency management partners from Harris, Fort Bend and Waller counties along with representatives from the cities of Katy and Fulshear. Superintendent Ken Gregorski told attendees at the July 16 forum, "The relationships we've built with every agency represented in the room make us stronger and better prepared to respond when it matters most."

Director of Emergency Management and School Safety Ruben Martinez and Rider both presented updates at that forum on campus safety enhancements and emergency preparedness efforts the district says exceed state requirements.

The district did not release the names or number of officers sworn in or promoted. School zones across the Katy area reactivate Tuesday, Aug. 11, one day before students arrive.

Residents can contact the Katy ISD Police Department at 281-396-2400 to report safety concerns.