The Copperas Cove Independent School District has officially named its next leader for middle school students on the south side of town.

During a special meeting on Tuesday, the CCISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously (6-0) to appoint Roger McNeel as the new principal of Copperas Cove Junior High School for the 2025-26 academic year.

McNeel, a Central Texas native, steps into the role with years of experience in education and administration. Most recently, he served as principal at Huntsville Elementary School during the 2024-25 school year. Prior to that, he held positions at Huntsville High School as assistant principal (2020-2022) and associate principal (2022-24). His administrative experience also includes serving as assistant principal at Willis High School (2017-20) after years of teaching mathematics in Huntsville and Willis.

Beyond his leadership roles, McNeel has contributed significantly to positive behavior intervention & support initiatives and has actively participated in district and campus advisory groups.

McNeel expressed enthusiasm for his new position, stating, “I am very excited to join the Bulldawg family. I truly believe I’ve been called into this career to make a difference, and I feel like this is exactly where I’m meant to be. I lead with a servant mindset and can’t wait to get to know the incredible staff, students, and community of Copperas Cove Junior High.”

CCISD Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins praised McNeel’s background and leadership experience, saying, “Mr. McNeel’s resume is impressive, and he has vast experience in guiding campuses toward better academic performance in any role he’s held. He quickly rose to the top of our applicant pool, and I am confident that he will continue the work that has been done at Cove Junior High to positively impact our students.”

We reached out to Copperas Cove ISD to inquire where Mr. Shannon was headed and was told he is remaining in the district but was not given further details.

The Board also approved a key reassignment within the district’s athletics department. Christy Thompson, who has served as Copperas Cove High School’s Girls Athletic Coordinator and Head Volleyball Coach, will take on an additional role as Assistant Athletic Director, continuing to provide leadership for the district’s sports programs.

Dr. Hawkins noted Thompson’s contributions, stating, “Coach Thompson has long been a vital team member in both our athletic department and at CCHS. She has been supportive in important efforts for everyone in athletics and will make sure our students have everything they need to succeed. I know Coach Thompson will be a large part of our efforts to continue restoring Bulldawg pride throughout the Five Hills.”

Trustees also received an update on the ongoing legislative session from Dr. Hawkins. The Board of Trustees is scheduled to hold its regular June workshop and meeting next month:

• Workshop: June 9 at Noon
• Regular Meeting: June 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Both meetings will take place in the Board Room at the CCISD Service & Training Center on South Main Street. Agendas will be posted outside the District Service & Training Center 72 hours prior to each meeting and can also be viewed online on the Board Meetings page of the district website.