Experienced educator and leader to take helm at HES, succeeding Christy Cross in 2024-2025 school year
HUNTSVILLE, TX – In a special called meeting on Monday, May 20, 2024, the Huntsville ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the recommendation to hire Mr. Roger McNeel as the new principal of Huntsville Elementary School for the 2024-2025 school year. Mr. McNeel will fill the vacancy created by Christy Cross’ promotion to administration as the new Director of Professional Development. With over a decade of experience in education and a substantial background in administrative leadership, Mr. McNeel brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to HES. His key values include commitment, integrity, accountability, and teamwork.
Mr. McNeel began his educational career in 2012, at Huntsville Intermediate School within Huntsville ISD, teaching math. In 2017, he transitioned to campus leadership when he joined Willis ISD as an Assistant Principal at Willis High School. By 2020, he returned to Huntsville ISD to serve as an Assistant Principal at Huntsville High School. In 2022, he was promoted to Associate Principal, a role he has held for the past two years. Throughout his leadership roles, Mr. McNeel has acquired extensive experience in managing campus daily operations, ensuring school safety and security, handling student discipline, overseeing special services, and conducting teacher assessments and professional development, among other responsibilities.
Mr. McNeel exemplifies leadership by example. His intelligence, humility, and collaborative spirit make him a remarkable leader. He is renowned for his great heart and passion for people, especially students. His vision for leadership focuses on empowering students and staff to achieve their highest potential. Colleagues and staff members describe Mr. McNeel with phrases such as “calm,” “personable,” “relational,” “dependable,” “passionate,” “difference maker,” and “heart for kids.” These attributes help to reflect his commitment to making a significant positive impact within the district.
Mr. McNeel is well-known and respected within the community, his church, and the district. He is married to Sarah, a guidance counselor at Huntsville High School, and they have two children. Mr. McNeel’s commitment to Huntsville ISD and the community is deeply personal, and his investment in this district is evident through his family’s active involvement. His personal values of community and service are mirrored in his professional approach, making him a tremendous addition to the HES team.
Huntsville ISD is excited about the future of Huntsville Elementary School under Mr. McNeel’s leadership.
