The Copperas Cove ISD Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the hiring of Mario Morales as the next Director of Instrumental Music, marking an exciting new chapter for the Pride of Cove Band and Color Guard. The decision, made during a special board meeting on May 6, brings a seasoned leader with a strong track record of success to the district.
Morales, a Central Texas native, has led multiple successful band programs across Texas, earning top honors at UIL competitions. Most recently, he served as Director of Bands at Yoakum ISD, where his Bulldog Band earned a 1st-division rating at the 2024 Region Marching Contest and advanced to the UIL Area E Finals in Class 3A. His leadership in 2025 also helped the band secure the UIL Sweepstakes Honor at the Concert & Sight-Reading Contest.
His previous experience includes serving as Director of Bands and Instrumental Music Supervisor at Granbury High School from 2022–2024, where he led ensembles to UIL Area Marching Contest and earned Sweepstakes for every band in the district. Morales has also directed successful programs at Kaufman High School, Castleberry High School, and Fort Worth Trimble Tech, consistently guiding his students to high-level achievements.
Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins emphasized Morales’ credentials and vision, saying, “Mr. Morales’ track record speaks for itself. His vision for the Pride of Cove Band truly set him apart during the interview process. We are confident he will help us take the next step toward the Alamodome and continue to elevate music education in CCISD.”
The board meeting also included a presentation by Schneider Electric detailing an energy audit, aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, trustees approved funding for Goal 1 in the Board of Trustees Goals, focusing on elementary enrichment programs to enhance educational opportunities for younger students.
“By approving this funding for elementary enrichment and reviewing the energy audit, our district is taking important steps to provide a better educational experience while remaining fiscally responsible,” Hawkins noted.
The Board of Trustees will hold its next workshop on Monday, May 12 at noon in the District Service & Training Center and a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Lea Ledger Auditorium on the campus of Copperas Cove High School.
For more information, visit www.CCISD.com/SchoolBoard.
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