On April 28, 2026, the Mansfield ISD school board announced Ruben Molinar as the new principal. Mr. Molinar will leave his role as principal of Castleberry High School and officially step into his new role on July 6.
“Legacy has a rich tradition of excellence, and Mansfield ISD has always been a district that I respect, value and was good to me,” Mr. Molinar said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to be part of that continued success.”
Mr. Molinar began his career in Dallas ISD at David G. Burnett Elementary, where he served as a first grade bilingual teacher. He later worked as an administrator in elementary, middle and high schools. The 2026-27 school year will serve as Mr. Molinar’s 29th year in education.
“The best part of this career is the opportunity to work with students every day and make a positive impact on their lives,” Mr. Molinar said.
Throughout his time in education Mr. Molinar has worked at several MISD schools, including Timberview and Summit High School.
“The most challenging part is stepping into a new environment as the ‘new kid on the block,’” Mr. Molinar said. “Change can be difficult, but I embrace the opportunity and look forward to learning and growing with the Legacy community.”
After being announced as principal, Mr. Molinar attended a Legacy baseball game. In the past, Mr. Molinar coached the school teams and he currently coaches 18U travel baseball.
“I’m truly excited to meet all the incredible students, staff and families at Legacy,” Mr. Molinar said. “I’ve already had the chance to connect with some members of the community, and that has made me even more excited to get started.”
Entrepreneurship and sports marketing teacher Crystal Hooper worked with Mr. Molinar during her first year of teaching.
“He was very supportive on a personal level,” Ms. Hooper said, “I just felt like I could go to him for anything, and it didn’t feel like I was being a burden.”
Teachers, such as Ms. Hooper, feel that support from administration allows for a better teaching environment.
“I think it’s a big deal that he lives in this community,” Ms. Hooper said. “I think his roots are in MISD. He’ll bring that love for the MISD and the Mansfield community to Legacy.”
Mr. Molinar hopes to build strong relationships, ensure a safe and supportive school environment and help all students succeed while preparing them for the next step in life.
“Each school has its own strengths and areas for growth, but the core work remains the same: supporting students, staff and the community,” Mr. Molinar said. “I will always value my time at Castleberry and am excited to begin this next chapter.”
