DeSoto ISD Board of Trustees Approve Three Leadership Appointments at June 16 Meeting
During the June 16, 2025, DeSoto Independent School District combined board meeting, trustees approved three leadership appointments in various aspects of organizational leadership.
The Board approved the following recommendations:
Dr. Michelle Neely, Executive Director of Administrative Services
Michelle R. Neely, Ed.D. is a dynamic professional educator with over 23 years of experience in school leadership, curriculum development, and program implementation. Most recently serving in the same role in an interim capacity, Neely came into the DeSoto ISD as Principal of Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy in 2021. Dr. Neely has successfully led her campus to multiple recognitions, including U.S. News Best Elementary and Middle School rankings and Texas PTA School of Excellence designations. A passionate advocate for student-centered learning, she excels in building teacher capacity, advancing instructional quality, and fostering equitable, inclusive school cultures. Dr. Neely holds a doctorate in P-12 Education and is a Principal Impact Collaborative Fellow. Her career includes impactful roles as a middle school principal, dean, program manager, and educational consultant, with a consistent track record of improving student achievement and institutional performance. A frequent national and international presenter, she is recognized for her work in character education, leadership development, and global learning.
As the district’s executive director of administrative services, Neely will work closely with the Superintendent of Schools and administration to provide support in the areas of policy and compliance; strategic planning and project management regarding special projects.
Dr. Brandie Buford, Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
Dr. Brandie J. Buford is a results-driven educational leader with over 17 years of experience in curriculum, assessment, and instructional leadership across public and charter school settings. Currently serving as a Principal Apprentice in Houston ISD, she is known for driving measurable improvements in teacher effectiveness, student achievement, and school culture through data-informed leadership. As former Director of Accountability & Testing and DCSI at The Varnett Public Schools, Dr. Buford led districtwide performance initiatives, streamlined assessment systems, and implemented professional development aligned with instructional priorities. She holds a Doctorate in Literacy Studies and multiple advanced degrees in education, and has also served as a university professor, curriculum specialist, and mentor. Committed to academic excellence, equitable instruction, and stakeholder collaboration, Dr. Buford is a proven leader in advancing student outcomes and institutional performance.
Dr. Buford will oversee the district’s MTSS efforts, a comprehensive framework used in education to provide targeted support to all students. It is designed to address academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and attendance needs through a proactive, data-driven approach. MTSS aims to prevent failure by identifying and responding to student needs early, promoting a culture of support and continuous improvement in schools.
Shonda Boston-Smith, Principal, Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School
Shonda Boston-Smith is a dynamic educational leader with over 20 years of experience in instructional leadership, data-driven practices, and staff management. Currently serving as an Assistant Principal in Dallas ISD, she has successfully supported campuses in achieving academic growth, including improved STAAR outcomes and a 100% CCMR designation. Boston-Smith specializes in equitable discipline, campus safety, and stakeholder engagement, consistently fostering positive school culture and student success. She holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University and actively participates in professional learning through leadership networks such as Dallas ISD Lead.
As Principal of Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School, Boston-Smith will be responsible for driving academic achievement, fostering a positive and inclusive school culture, and supporting staff development. By implementing data-driven instruction, restorative discipline, and strong community partnerships, she will work to ensure a safe, high-performing environment that prepares all students for success through the DeSoto ISD Triple-A Experience of Academics, Arts and Athletics.
For more information on the progress and plans for the upcoming school year in DeSoto ISD, please visit www.desotoisd.org.