Frank Moates was superintendent of DeSoto schools from 1974 to 1990 and is the namesake
for Moates Elementary School. After his retirement, he also served as a consultant with the
Texas Association of School Boards for 15 years, monitored ISD’s on behalf of TEA and worked as interim superintendent for several districts.
When Moates arrived, DeSoto ISD was a small 1A district with growth on the horizon. Over the next 16 years under his guidance, the district built six schools and numerous athletic facilities, developed the Gifted and Talented Program, and launched into the new era of technology.
He was an active member of the Best Southwest Coalition for Education and worked to secure legislation that was beneficial to DeSoto ISD. He is the father of two DeSoto High School graduates and was a member of the community for many years.
Upon full retirement, Moates and his wife Cynthia continued to work in education on their numerous mission trips around the world.
For his work in the district, Mr. Moates was welcomed into the DeSoto Hall of Honor as a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award in May of 2013.
Additionally, he is the namesake of the Frank D. Moates Elementary campus located at 1500 Heritage Blvd in Glenn Heights led by Principal Angela Robinson.