DeSoto ISD Celebrates Positive Momentum and Growth with Record Reductions in Attrition and Advances Academic, Arts, and Athletics Experiences
While school systems across the nation face challenges of
declining enrollment and shrinking budgets tied to attendance-based funding,
DeSoto Independent School District is charting a different course. In the last
three years, under the leadership of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Usamah
Rodgers and with the consistency of the DeSoto
ISD Board of Trustees, the district has reduced annual attrition from 16
percent to just two percent—signaling a period of unprecedented stability and
forward momentum.
District leaders attribute this transformation to a unified
vision, consistent leadership, and a shared commitment to strengthening the Triple-A
Experience—DeSoto ISD’s holistic approach to education rooted in Academics,
Arts, and Athletics.
“This moment represents the collective work of our Board,
staff, families, and community,” said Dr. Rodgers. “By focusing
on stability, service, and student-centered innovation, we have reversed
attrition trends and set DeSoto ISD on a forward trajectory. This is not just
about numbers—it’s about building a culture where students and staff alike feel
supported, valued, and inspired.”
Academic Momentum
DeSoto ISD has strengthened its academic framework by
streamlining curriculum, expanding Early College and launching P-TECH pathways,
and introducing career-focused courses in biomedical sciences, construction,
cybersecurity, and more. These build on existing award-winning programs in
Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Welding, Agriculture, and Animal
Science.
At the early learning level, the district reopened the
beloved Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center and invested in
early literacy and numeracy with programs like i-Ready. The results are
clear: virtually
every campus saw academic improvement with DeSoto High School advancing
to a “B” rating and Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy
earning the “Top 25% Comparative Closing the Gaps” distinction, placing it
among the state’s top-performing campuses for supporting diverse student
populations.
“Our academic strategy is deeply intentional,” said Dr.
Stephanie McCloud, Chief Academic Officer. “Through data-driven decisions,
teacher collaboration, and expanded learning pathways, we are creating
opportunities that prepare every scholar for success in college, career, and
beyond. These results show that our strategy is working.”
Social-Emotional and Wellness Supports
Recognizing that wellness is foundational to achievement,
the district is investing in scholar mental health through Zen
Dens—calming spaces designed for emotional regulation and restorative
practice. Supported by federal grants and partnerships with organizations like 2InspirePeace,
these spaces were installed districtwide and were fully operational at the
start of the 2025–2026 school year.
Complementary initiatives include mentoring programs,
wellness events, and professional development in trauma-informed practices like
peer mediation circles, ensuring that mental health is embedded in DeSoto ISD’s
academic strategy.
“We know that student success depends on more than academics
alone,” said Dr. Gene Morrow, Executive Director of Student and Staff
Support Services. “By investing in mental health supports, wellness spaces,
and mentoring programs, we are creating an environment where every child can
thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.”
Excellence in Arts and Athletics
DeSoto ISD continues to shine in Fine Arts, with
student-driven projects such as murals created in partnership with professional
artists and nationally recognized band, choir, and dance programs. In
athletics, the district remains a powerhouse, with more than 22 state titles
in its history and a culture of competitive excellence opening pathways to
collegiate and professional sports that continues to inspire community pride.
Staff Culture and Retention
Stability has also been achieved by investing in staff.
Initiatives such as PRIDE Huddles—daily morning gatherings celebrating
staff contributions—are transforming workplace culture. The district has also
cut staff attrition by nearly 50 percent, introduced robust professional
development, and launched a Para-to-Teacher program in partnership with
an area higher education entity, creating new career pathways for existing
district paraprofessionals.
These staff-centered supports mirror the Triple-A
Experience for scholars by cultivating Acknowledgement, Appreciation,
and Aspiration among employees.
A Vision for the Future
As the district begins implementing its historic $199M
bond package, DeSoto ISD is constructing more than new facilities—it is
constructing a culture of excellence, belonging, and purpose.
Spotlight on Success through Strategic Storytelling
In addition to its academic, wellness, and staff-centered
initiatives, DeSoto ISD has been intentional about elevating the district’s
story. Through dynamic marketing and storytelling, the district highlights not
only organizational achievements but also the everyday successes of its
scholars. From showcasing student voices and accomplishments to celebrating
opportunities in classrooms, athletics, and the arts, DeSoto ISD ensures that
its narrative reflects the pride and progress of the entire community. “Our
commitment is to tell the full story of DeSoto ISD,” said DeSotoISD Chief
Communications Officer Tiffanie Blackmon-Jones. “That means amplifying
student success at every level, while also spotlighting the innovative programs
and forward momentum that make our district a place where excellence thrives.”
“We are proud of the progress made, but even more excited
about where we are going,” added Dr. Rodgers. “DeSoto ISD is on an
upward trajectory because we are investing in people—our scholars, our staff,
and our community. Together, we are writing a new chapter of success,
stability, and pride.”
For more information about DeSoto ISD’s programs,
initiatives, and progress, visit www.desotoisd.org.