Eagle Employee Department Spotlight: John D. Nobles
Positive Behavior & Restorative Practices Coordinator
Student & Staff Support Services – Cockrell Hill Elementary
DeSoto ISD proudly highlights John D. Nobles, a dedicated educator who has served the district for all 16 years of his career. As the Positive Behavior & Restorative Practices Coordinator, Nobles plays a vital role in strengthening campus culture, guiding student behavior, and supporting the holistic needs of both students and staff.
Nobles’ work is anchored in the DeSoto ISD PRIDE value of Purpose. He shares that this value closely aligns with the district’s mission—particularly the belief that all students, “without exception,” can learn and grow. That mission fuels his commitment to creating environments where students feel valued, supported, and capable of reaching their highest potential.
Championing Every Student: Building Stronger Campuses Through Restorative Practices
Throughout his journey in education, Nobles has been deeply connected to students often labeled “at-risk.” His belief in the power and potential within every child drives his daily work. He reflects on a pivotal moment from his first year in education at DAEP when Principal Homer Webb told him, “Nobles, at the end of the day, even that most challenging kid… that’s somebody’s baby.”
That message, he says, still guides his approach and reminds him to lead with empathy, patience, and unwavering commitment. “I know that every one of our students has the potential inside of them to achieve at THEIR highest levels, and need people who will champion them as well,” Nobles adds.
In his current role, Nobles supports both behavior systems and the overall campus climate. He emphasizes that academic achievement is built on strong human connections, and his work helps strengthen those foundations.
“Restorative Practices is the art and science of building relationships and community,” he explains.
By aligning restorative practices with social-emotional learning and the district’s Student Support Framework, Nobles addresses needs such as self-awareness, self-management, relationship-building, and overall well-being. His efforts ensure students and staff feel safe, respected, connected, and heard.
For Nobles, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing students succeed—no matter how success is defined for each individual.
“That success may look different for each individual, but when I see those successes, it makes me proud.”
A Grounded, Resilient, and Constant Encourager
Despite the challenges of the work, Nobles remains grounded by keeping perspective and joy at the center of his day. “I take my work seriously, but I don’t take myself too seriously. I breathe, try to be mindful, and most of all, ‘Enjoy Life and Smile Every Day.’” Something else unique to note about Nobles, he could eat nachos and tacos every single day. Though he tries not to!
Inspiration and Motivation:
He finds continual inspiration in the people around him—the educators and staff who show up every day to make a difference for children. The prospect of the greatness that can be achieved ahead of us is exciting. I look forward to it.”