The Bulldog Report - July 17, 2025

Moran Independent School District is ushering in the 2025-2026 school year with new leadership and significant academic expansion, according to MISD superintendent Dr. John Denson.

“We have hired a new principal and our first ever counselor,” Denson said. “With their addition to our staff, we are taking academics to a new level.”

Ryan McElroy has been named principal, and Dr. Destaney McElroy has been hired as the district’s first counselor. Both are alumni of Tarleton State University and come to Moran ISD from Hondo ISD. Their son, Cody, will begin fifth grade at Moran this fall.

Denson said that Moran ISD’s academic focus includes strengthening both classroom learning and College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) offerings. Students now have access to three career endorsements: Multidisciplinary Studies, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and Business and Industry.

Moran’s course offerings have expanded to include Chemistry, Physics, and a variety of dual credit classes. Eighth graders will take Algebra I, while seventh and eighth graders will participate in high school-level agricultural classes. Many students will now earn multiple high school credits before entering ninth grade, the superintendent explained.

A variety of Career and Technology Education (CTE) classes, as well as on-site college agriculture courses, will also be available. Students can earn certifications in Welding, Animal Science, Microsoft Office Suite, BASF Plant Science, Feedlot Management, and Floral Design.

“These certifications provide students with tangible skills and credentials that boost their readiness for both careers and continued education,” Denson said.