DeSoto Independent School District proudly recognizes National Assistant Principal Week, an annual celebration honoring the contributions of assistant principals in schools across the nation. Observed during the first full week of April, this week-long recognition was established in 2000 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) to highlight the critical role assistant principals play in supporting campus leadership and student success.
DeSoto ISD salutes and celebrates its cadre of excellent assistant principals as noted below:
- Crissy Peterson-Smith, Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center
- Yolanda Lilly, Frank D. Moates Elementary School
- Dereka Holland, The Meadows Elementary
- Chenae Washington, Woodridge Fine Arts and Gifted Academy
- Shnell Jackson, Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy
- Charles Thomas, Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy
- Demaki Jones, DeSoto West Middle School
- Ladee Ajuobi, Curtistene S. Mccowan Middle School
- Cora Garner, Curtistene S. Mccowan Middle School
- Jocelyn Starling, Early College High School
- Lori Mathis, DeSoto High School
- Cedric Mitchell, DeSoto High School
- Kimberly Smith, DeSoto High School
- Verlean West, DeSoto High School
Assistant principals serve as the operational and instructional backbone of schools, providing essential support that ensures campuses run efficiently and effectively. From managing daily operations, discipline, and safety protocols to assisting with curriculum implementation, instructional support, and teacher mentorship, assistant principals play a vital role in shaping positive learning environments. Often working behind the scenes, they are the unsung heroes whose leadership and dedication directly impact student achievement and campus success.
“Assistant principals are key leaders on our campuses, balancing the demands of operations, instruction, and student engagement,”said DeSoto ISD Interim Superintendent Brent Mitchell. “National Assistant Principal Week is an important opportunity to recognize their tireless efforts and the difference they make every day in the lives of our students.”
Dr. Elexia Davison, DeSoto ISD Executive Director of Human Resources, added, “Our assistant principals are instrumental in fostering safe, supportive, and effective learning environments. They are problem-solvers, mentors, and leaders who work collaboratively with staff, students, and families to ensure our schools meet high standards.”
Highlighting the on-campus perspective, DeSoto High School Principal Dr. Leon Darden noted, “Assistant principals are the unsung heroes of our campus. Their guidance, leadership, and attention to both operational and instructional details allow teachers to focus on instruction and students to focus on learning. We are proud to salute their dedication and expertise during National Assistant Principal Week.”
DeSoto ISD joins districts nationwide in celebrating National Assistant Principal Week, acknowledging the invaluable contributions these leaders make in supporting teachers, students, and families. Their work ensures that campuses operate smoothly, classrooms thrive, and students are provided the opportunities and guidance needed to succeed.