James and Mitzi Cross

James and Mitzi Cross both have extensive careers in education, contributing to their communities and inspiring future generations of students and educators. James began his teaching career in Levelland, Texas, where he taught English and U.S. History while also serving as assistant varsity, and then varsity tennis coach, at Levelland Junior High until 1998. That same year, he transitioned into administration as assistant principal at Levelland Junior High before going on to become the principal at Whiteface Junior High/High School.  James moved to Katy ISD’s Beck Junior High in 2002, where he served as assistant principal, and later as principal until 2009. His leadership journey culminated in his role as principal of Cinco Ranch  High School in Katy ISD, where he served until 2022. Mitzi Cross also had a long and fulfilling career in education. Her career began as a 7th grade English Language Arts teacher at Brownfield ISD from 1983 to 1986. She then taught 5th grade social studies and ELA at Roosevelt ISD before moving to Levelland ISD, where she taught 5th grade ELA. Mitzi then shifted to the role of librarian in Levelland before becoming a 5th grade ELA teacher at Alexander Elementary in Katy ISD in 2002. She later served as the librarian at Diane Winborn  Elementary and Michael Griffin Elementary in the district. Mitzi retired after a 40-year career in education, having made a lasting impact on countless students. James and Mitzi have  deep ties to education. James comes from a family of educators. His brother served as a teacher and coach at WoodCreek Junior High in Katy ISD and as assistant principal in Cy-Fair  ISD. The couple’s daughter and son-in-law are both teachers in Katy ISD, with their son-in-law having previously been named Teacher of the Year at West Memorial Junior High in 2018.  James and Mitzi’s youngest daughter is currently pursuing a career in education. Together, James and Mitzi Cross have made significant contributions to the Katy ISD school community,  nurturing generations of students and fostering a legacy of learning and service. James graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Education. Mitzi graduated from  Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Educational Technology and Library Specialist.