Tanya Heard Named Principal of Morton Ranch Junior High, Bringing Over 25 Years of Leadership to Katy ISD
Katy Independent School District has officially named Tanya Heard as the new principal of Morton Ranch Junior High School, a move that brings a seasoned and award-winning educational leader to the Maverick community.
Heard, who has dedicated more than 25 years to public education, most recently served as principal of Rylander Elementary. During her three-year tenure, the school earned high academic performance ratings from the Texas Education Agency, and she was honored as the Texas PTA Elementary Principal of the Year—a reflection of her commitment to student success, parent engagement, and staff empowerment.
“I’m honored to continue to serve Katy ISD in this capacity at Morton Ranch Junior High School and look forward to partnering with students, families and staff to build on the campus’s strong foundation,” Heard shared. “My goal is to ensure that every student and staff member feels seen, supported and challenged always to reach their full potential.”
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A Leader Rooted in Growth, Equity, and Empowerment
Heard is well known throughout the Texas education community for her ability to foster professional learning communities, which have been credited with boosting both student achievement and teacher development. Her expertise in cultivating positive school culture has led to frequent speaking engagements at state and national education conferences.
Her career spans leadership roles at the elementary, middle, and high school levels—including service as assistant principal at Mayde Creek High School within Katy ISD and at L.V. Hightower High School in Fort Bend ISD. She also previously directed Katy ISD’s secondary summer school program, where she implemented systems to elevate academic support and performance.
“Principal Heard has consistently demonstrated her dedication to creating strong learning environments where each student is prepared to succeed,” said Katy ISD Superintendent Dr. Ken Gregorski. “I am confident that, under her leadership, students will continue to excel, and staff will be inspired each day to give their best to our Morton Ranch Junior High Mavericks.”
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Qualifications and Vision for Morton Ranch
Heard brings an impressive academic background to her new post. She holds a mid-management certification in Education Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington, a master’s degree in organizational management with a focus on Human Resources, and dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and biology education.
She will officially assume her new role at Morton Ranch Junior High on Monday, July 14, 2025, succeeding Dr. Frederick Black, who is pursuing new educational opportunities outside the district.
For families in Williamsburg Settlement, Heard’s appointment marks the start of a new chapter for Morton Ranch Junior High—one focused on cultivating a thriving, inclusive, and academically ambitious environment.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for future updates on school leadership transitions and community milestones across Katy ISD.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
