Cross Legacy Celebrated as Katy ISD Dedicates James and Mitzi Cross Elementary

KATY, TX [March 02, 2026] – Hundreds of students, families, educators and community leaders gathered Monday evening as Katy ISD officially dedicated James and Mitzi Cross Elementary, honoring two lifelong educators whose impact spans generations of Katy students and schools.

The ceremony celebrated the Cross’ enduring commitment to education and service, as District leaders and loved ones reflected on decades of leadership, mentorship and advocacy that helped shape Katy ISD classrooms and campuses.

“Your name is not just on this building — it lives in our mission to ensure high levels of learning for every student,” Cross Elementary Principal Tamika Holdman said. “Thank you for the confidence you’ve placed in us to steward your legacy.”

James Cross served more than 20 years in Katy ISD as a campus leader, including principalships at Beck Junior High and Cinco Ranch High School, where he guided academic excellence and student opportunity through years of District growth. In 2025 he was elected to the Katy ISD Board of Trustees.

“Across Katy ISD, our school names tell the story of the people who built and strengthened this community,” said Lance Redmon, Katy ISD Board President. “The Cross’ have devoted their professional lives to public education, serving students, supporting teachers, and helping campuses grow and flourish.”

Mitzi Cross dedicated four decades to education as a teacher and librarian, including roles at Alexander, Winborn and Griffin elementary schools in Katy ISD. Lauded for her advocacy for literacy and student support, in 2020 she was named Katy ISD Librarian of the Year.

The Cross’ daughters shared reflections on the couple’s influence, emphasizing the values of compassion and service modeled throughout their careers.

“Thank you for loving students like your own, for leading with patience and kindness and for showing us what it means to serve others well,” said Sarah Canales, a Katy ISD teacher and daughter of the Namesakes.

In his remarks, James Cross encouraged students to carry forward those values.

“May Cross Elementary be a place where every child feels valued and seen,” he said. “May you learn not only reading, writing and arithmetic, but also kindness, integrity, compassion and perseverance.”

The event included performances by the Cavalier Chorale and a formal dedication by the Katy ISD Board of Trustees. Special presentations were delivered by Wendi Lojo, District liaison for the Office of Senator Joan Huffman, Texas Senate District 17; Representative Stan Kitzman, Texas House District 85; Audrey Young, Ed.D., member of the Texas State Board of Education; and Maida Guillen, community engagement coordinator representing Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones, Precinct 4. A City of Katy proclamation honoring the Cross family was presented by Mayor William “Dusty” Thiele.

The campus, approved by voters as part of Bond 2023, serves families in the District’s northwest quadrant.

Katy ISD and community members honored the Cross Family at the James and Mitzi Cross Elementary Dedication Ceremony. Pictured from left to right: Board President Lance Redmon, Cross Elementary Principal Tamika Holdman, Mitzi and James Cross and Superintendent Ken Gregorski.

Cross Elementary Dedication Photo Gallery

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