DeSoto ISD Board Approves Memorandum of Understanding with Education Is Freedom to Expand College and Career Access
During the August 25, 2025 Board of Trustees meeting, DeSoto ISD approved a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Education Is Freedom (EIF), a Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to provide comprehensive college and career access services at DeSoto High School. This partnership supports the district’s commitment to preparing students for post-graduate success while maximizing eligibility for College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) outcomes-based funding under Texas House Bill 3.
“There is no upfront cost to the district for this partnership,” said Dr. Stephanie McCloud, Chief Academic Officer, DeSoto ISD. “EIF advances the funding for these services, and the district will reimburse the organization from future outcomes-based funding tied to student success. This is a cost-effective strategy to expand opportunities and elevate post-secondary outcomes for our students.”
The agreement outlines EIF’s provision of school-based programs including personalized college and career advising, academic planning, financial aid and scholarship guidance, post-secondary enrollment support, family engagement, and workforce readiness initiatives.
The program will be staffed by dedicated EIF advisors who will work closely with 11th- and 12th-grade students to ensure they have the resources, guidance, and mentorship needed to transition successfully from high school to college, career, or military pathways.
Dr. Anita Perry, Executive Director of CCMR, Counseling Services, and Advanced Academics, added, “By bringing expert advisors directly into our schools, we can provide personalized, high-impact support that empowers students to navigate the college and career planning process with confidence. EIF’s resources help us remove barriers and increase access for every scholar.”
The MOU is effective for the 2025-2026 school year and includes provisions for collaboration, data-sharing, and compliance with all applicable state and federal privacy laws. DeSoto ISD anticipates that this partnership could generate more than $1 million in outcomes-based funding through improved CCMR performance, providing a sustainable model to support student achievement for years to come.
Dr. Usamah Rodgers, Superintendent of Schools, DeSoto ISD, emphasized the broader impact: “This renewed partnership exemplifies our district’s commitment to future-ready graduates. By leveraging innovative programs like EIF’s, we strengthen our students’ post-secondary opportunities, ensure equitable access to guidance, and ultimately position our scholars for lifelong success.”
For more information about DeSoto ISD’s programs, services and initiatives, please visit www.DeSotoisd.org.