James Cross
For Katy ISD Board of Trustees
James Cross has dedicated 30 years to serving students and families as a public school teacher and campus administrator. He began his career in west Texas and spent the last 22 years in Katy ISD. While in Katy ISD, he served as an assistant principal and later as the campus principal at Rodger and Ellen Beck Junior High. He then led Cinco Ranch High School as principal from 2009 until his retirement in 2022. Because of his strong commitment to students, families, and educators, James continues to advocate for them at the Texas State Legislature through The Southeast Texas Education Coalition.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Under James’s leadership, his schools have excelled academically, athletically, and in the fine arts. He was highly effective at fostering a strong, positive culture within the school and the surrounding community. His ability to unite people has been the cornerstone of his success as a school administrator.
James has led state- and nationally-ranked schools in both west Texas and Katy ISD, earning recognition as a state-level award-winning administrator. In 2018, he was honored as the Texas PTA Secondary Principal of the Year. He also received the Agricultural Teacher’s Association Outstanding Principal award in 2019 and was named Principal of the Year by the Texas Journalism Educators Association in 2020.
A former English and history teacher, James has a passion for reading, traveling, and exploring history, but his greatest joy is spending time with his family. A man of faith, he has served as a deacon and taught Bible classes at his church.
He has also been a dedicated mentor in the Katy ISD KEYS mentoring program, a member of KARE (Katy Area Retired Educators), and a charter member of the Katy Education Foundation. He and his wife, Mitzi, were honored with the naming of Katy ISD Elementary School #48 as James and Mitzi Cross Elementary.
A Legacy Built on Generations of Educators
About the Cross Family
The Cross Family has deep education roots with multiple generations of educators. James’s wife, Mitzi, served the community of Katy ISD for 21 years as a teacher and an award-winning elementary librarian. They have two daughters, both Katy ISD graduates. Their eldest daughter is currently a teacher in Katy ISD, while their younger daughter is studying at Texas Tech University to become a special education teacher, with plans to eventually become a counselor. James’s son-in-law is also a teacher in Katy ISD and was honored as Campus Teacher of the Year. Additionally, his two grandchildren are currently attending elementary school in Katy ISD.
In his new role, James brings his lifelong dedication to education and proven leadership skills to champion the students, teachers, and parents of Katy ISD. His ability to unite people around a common goal has been the foundation of his service to children and the community. James remains committed to making a meaningful difference for Katy ISD, continuing his legacy of service and leadership.
Press Release
James Cross Announces Candidacy for Katy ISD School Board
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Katy, TX – James Cross, a retired Katy ISD educator and campus principal, has filed to run for Katy ISD School Board Trustee, Position 1. With a strong commitment to quality education and proven leadership, Cross brings 30 years of...