DeSoto ISD Overview

Student 1Child 2Child 3

Located 15 miles south of downtown Dallas, serving the communities of DeSoto, Glenn Heights, and Ovilla, DeSoto ISD enjoys community support of academics, arts, and athletics. With taxpayer support for upgraded facilities, technology, and instruction, every school provides viable and relevant high-quality learning experiences supported by pyramids of intervention, enrichment, and advancement.

DeSoto is known for its tight-knit, socially- and civically-engaged and active community, beautiful parks, and robust arts-focused programs which bring visual and performing arts alive for city residents.

DeSoto is home to just over 55,000 people, the average home is valued at $225,000 and the average annual household income is roughly $80,000.

Serving students from early childhood through graduation, DeSoto ISD’s mission is to ensure students, without exception, learn and grow at their highest level. The District’s 2021 Be The Future Strategic Plan focuses on equity, access, and excellence in an effort to provide a holistic and well-rounded educational experience.


6,000 Students           800 Employees           10 Campuses           23 Squares Miles



Learn More About the DeSoto Independent School District
Recent State of the District Summary
DeSoto ISD District Overview Pamphlet


Our Students

Students by Demographic:

  • 74.4 % African American
  • 20.9 % Hispanic
  • 1.9 % White
  • 0.2% American Indian
  • 2.3 % Two or More Races
  • 81 % Economically Disadvantaged
  • Diverse and multicultural student body representing more than 35 counties and 20 languages

Students by Program:

  • 604 Bilingual/ESL Education
  • 2, 593 Career and Technical Education
  • 618 Gifted and Talented Education
  • 832 Special Education

Our Schools

Early Childhood Campus

Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center

Elementary Campuses

  • Cockrell Hill Elementary
  • Woodridge Elementary
  • Frank D. Moates Elementary
  • The Meadows Elementary

6th-8th Grade - Middle Schools

  • Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School Fine Arts Academy
  • DeSoto West Middle School and Male Leadership Academy

9th-12 Grade High School

  • DeSoto Early College and P-TECH Academy
  • DeSoto High School

Specialized Campuses

  • Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy
  • Ruby Young Talented and Gifted Academy

K-12 Campus

  • Alternative Education Program