As the 2025–26 school year approaches, DeSoto Independent
School District proudly reintroduces its team of campus principals, dedicated
leaders who will guide the district’s schools with vision, integrity, and a
shared commitment to student success.
From early childhood education to secondary instruction, each principal brings a unique blend of experience, innovation, and heart to their campus, collectively reinforcing the district’s mission to educate, empower, and elevate every student.
Read below to learn about DeSoto ISD’s outstanding body of campus leaders:
Early Childhood & Elementary Leadership
Keishla Coleman returns as principal of Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center after being named the 2024–25 DeSoto ISD Principal of the Year. With more than 30 years in education, Coleman reestablished Amber Terrace in 2023 with a revitalized focus on Montessori, Head Start, and STEM programming. Her leadership has been critical in building early learning pathways that prepare DeSoto’s youngest scholars for long-term academic success.
Shauntai Hicks leads The Meadows Elementary, where her data driven approach to instruction and passion for student growth continue to shape a culture of excellence. Hicks brings extensive experience from Duncanville ISD and IDEA Public Schools, where she was instrumental in driving dramatic academic improvements.
Melvylyn “Sissy” Lowe remains a pillar of the DeSoto ISD community as principal of Cockrell Hill Elementary. A DeSoto ISD Hall of Honor inductee, Lowe is known for her legacy of inclusive leadership, unwavering commitment to educational equity, and a nurturing approach that has transformed countless lives.
David Paraham, the newly appointed principal of Frank D. Moates Elementary, brings more than 20 years of experience in education and
administration. With a focus on inclusive learning environments and student engagement, Paraham’s leadership emphasizes academic excellence through collaborative support and high expectations.
Middle School Leadership
Dr. Brittany Strickland has been named principal of DeSoto West Middle School following her successful tenure as interim principal. A
dedicated educator and experienced administrator, Dr. Strickland previously served as assistant principal and instructional specialist in DeSoto ISD, bringing deep institutional knowledge and a strong academic vision.
Shonda Boston-Smith joins DeSoto ISD as the new principal of Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School. With more than two decades in instructional leadership, Boston-Smith specializes in data-driven decision-making, equitable discipline, and staff development. Her focus is on creating a high-performing, inclusive culture that supports academics, arts, and athletics.
Specialized and Magnet Leadership
Demitree Tatum, principal of Woodridge Fine Arts and Gifted Academy, enters her fourth year at the helm, continuing her work
integrating fine arts and gifted instruction with academic rigor. With over 25 years in education, Tatum is a certified expert in gifted education and early learning, committed to cultivating creative and intellectually enriched learning environments.
Yolanda Hanspard takes the helm as principal of Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy following her interim leadership role. With a background in fine arts, STEM programming, and educational leadership, Hanspard brings a unique blend of creativity and structure to KJTMA’s STEAM-focused mission. Her leadership philosophy centers on resilience, empowerment, and academic innovation.
Homer Webb III continues to lead DeSoto ISD’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP). A longtime district leader, Webb has served in various roles throughout DeSoto ISD since 2005 and is deeply committed to holistic student development. His leadership style emphasizes restorative support, character-building, and academic opportunity.
High School Leadership
Dr. Leon Darden assumes full leadership of DeSoto High School as principal, bringing more than 20 years of experience and
a track record of transformative leadership. A familiar face in DeSoto ISD, Dr. Darden has served in multiple district roles, including principal of The Meadows Elementary, director of Early College High School, and administrator at DAEP. His bold vision for the high school centers on accountability, excellence, and intentional student achievement.
As DeSoto ISD prepares for the 2025–26 academic year, families, students, and community members are encouraged to connect with their campus leaders, engage in school events, and partner with principals to support student achievement.
Meet DeSoto ISD's campus principals at the upcoming open house
and meet the teacher events in August.
For more information about DeSoto ISD principals or campus leadership, visit www.desotoisd.org.