DeSoto ISD Students Recognized for Cybersecurity Excellence and Apprenticeship Achievement
DeSoto Independent School District (ISD), and Coherent Cyber Education are proud to jointly celebrate a significant milestone in workforce-aligned education. On May 27, 2025, during the DeSoto ISD Board Meeting which is set to begin at 6:30 pm at the DeSoto ISD Instructional Support Center located at 200 E. Belt Line Road in DeSoto, the district will recognize four outstanding students and one instructor who have enrolled in a pioneering cybersecurity curriculum and apprenticeship program.
“Our students have embraced this innovative experience with excitement and dedication. They are engaging in real-world, industry-connected learning, and this initiative has sparked interest not only in cybersecurity, but in the broader spectrum of technology careers.” said Melinda Pugh, Director of Career and Technical Education at DeSoto ISD. “We are proud to be part of a model that is shaping future-ready learners.”
This initiative is made possible through the Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Building America (ABA) Grant, which supports the development of cybersecurity apprenticeships tailored to meet both educational and workforce development goals. The program aligns with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), the Department of Defense 8140 framework, and industry standards including CompTIA certifications (ITF+, Network+, and Security+). Dual enrollment participants can also earn Dallas College’s Cyber Operations Level I Certificate, offering a critical head start toward careers in the information technology and cybersecurity sectors.
“Investing in youth and partnering directly with school districts like DeSoto ISD is how we build localized, diverse, and sustainable talent pipelines in the cybersecurity field, " said Dr. Sari McCoy, CEO of Coherent Cyber Education. “ This collaboration is not just about skills—it’s about access, opportunity, and long-term economic mobility.”
Honoring Future Cybersecurity Leaders
The following students were selected after expressing a strong interest in the cybersecurity field and successfully completing an application process:
- Gabrielle Macias – Grade 11
- Austin Vazquez – Grade 11
- Jaida Hampton – Grade 10
- Milagros Martinez – Grade 9
They are currently engaged in a pre-apprenticeship experience at DeSoto High School, with the opportunity to seamlessly transition into youth apprenticeships post-graduation.
In addition, Mr. Branton Robinson, a current DeSoto ISD instructor with a background in computer science, is participating in the program to support student learning. While cybersecurity expertise is not initially required due to the program’s structured online curriculum, summer training is planned for instructors to prepare for future cohorts and expand program capacity.
Empowering the Next Generation
This program provides students with real-world, hands-on experience in a high-wage, high-demand field. Participants will be better positioned for immediate employment or further postsecondary education in cybersecurity and related fields.
“Our academic vision is focused on preparing scholars for careers that haven’t been invented yet,” said Stephanie McCloud, Chief Academic Officer of DeSoto ISD. “This cybersecurity pathway provides a bridge between classroom learning and the evolving demands of a tech-driven workforce. It’s the future of education in action.”
Looking Ahead
This partnership is a blueprint for how public education and industry collaboration can transform the educational experience. As more students engage in this program, DeSoto ISD and Coherent Cyber Education remain committed to expanding access and creating innovative learning opportunities for future cohorts.
“Work-based learning and industry partnerships are vital to constructing a brighter, more viable future for our scholars. Programs like this empower students to build both their resumes and their confidence, while preparing them for economic mobility and sustained success, ” said Dr. Usamah Rodgers, Superintendent of Schools for DeSoto ISD. The district is planning to build a future cybersecurity pathway for scholars starting in eighth grade.
For more information, visit www.desotoisd.org.