DeSoto ISD Celebrates National Principals Month by Honoring Campus Leaders Who Shape the District’s Future
DeSoto Independent School District proudly joins the
nationwide observance of National Principals Month this October,
celebrating the extraordinary leadership and impact of its campus principals.
From early childhood classrooms to high school hallways,
DeSoto ISD principals serve as the heartbeat of their campuses—guiding academic
growth, cultivating a positive climate for students and staff, and forging
strong connections with families and the community.
“Principals are pivotal to the success of every student,”
said Dr. Usamah Rodgers, DeSoto ISD Superintendent of Schools. “Their
leadership is about more than managing a campus; it’s about creating an
environment where students thrive, teachers excel, and families feel supported.
I am grateful for each of our principals for the dedication and heart they
bring to their work every day.”
As a special tribute, the district will launch a National
Principals Month social media series highlighting each principal’s unique
perspective and leadership style. The series, modeled after Vogue’s popular 73
Questions format, will showcase principals in “Day-in-the-Life” video
features answering 8–10 rapid-fire questions while interacting with students
and staff on their campuses.
The series will air on the district’s social media platforms
every Tuesday and Thursday throughout October, beginning Thursday,
October 2, 2025.
Meet the Principals of DeSoto ISD
Dr. Raul Peña, DeSoto ISD Executive Director of School
Leadership, shared, “Principals are problem-solvers, mentors, and catalysts
for progress. Their influence reaches far beyond test scores; they shape the
character and experiences of the students in their care. We are proud to
spotlight their stories this month.”
From early childhood education to secondary instruction,
each principal brings a unique blend of experience, innovation, and heart to
their campus, collectively reinforcing the district’s mission to educate,
empower, and elevate every student.
Early Childhood & Elementary Leadership
- Keishla
Coleman, Principal, Amber Terrace Early Childhood Learning Center –
2024–25 DeSoto ISD Principal of the Year, revitalized the center with a
focus on Montessori, Head Start, and STEM programming.
- Shauntai
Hicks, Principal, The Meadows Elementary – Data-driven leader known
for boosting student growth and fostering a culture of excellence.
- Melvylyn
“Sissy” Lowe, Principal, Cockrell Hill Elementary – A Hall of Honor
inductee and a beloved pillar of inclusive, equitable leadership.
- David
Paraham, Principal, Frank D. Moates Elementary – Brings over two
decades of experience with a focus on collaboration, inclusion, and high
expectations.
Middle School Leadership
- Dr.
Brittany Strickland, Principal, DeSoto West Middle School – A
dedicated educator with deep institutional knowledge and a strong academic
vision.
- Shonda
Boston-Smith, Principal, Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School – A
seasoned leader focused on data-driven instruction, equity, and
student-centered culture.
Specialized and Magnet Leadership
- Demitree
Tatum, Principal, Woodridge Fine Arts and Gifted Academy – A certified
gifted education expert integrating fine arts and rigorous academics.
- Yolanda
Hanspard, Principal, Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy –
Brings creativity and structure to the academy’s STEAM-focused mission.
- Homer
Webb III, Principal, Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP)
– A restorative leader focused on character development and second
chances.
High School Leadership
- Dr.
Leon Darden, Interim Principal, DeSoto High School – A transformative
leader with a bold vision for academic excellence, accountability, and
achievement.
“A principal’s vision and commitment set the tone for
academic rigor, innovation, and a culture of inclusivity,” said Stephanie
McCloud, DeSoto ISD Chief Academic Officer. “Our principals are leaders of
learning who empower their teachers and staff to inspire every student they
serve.”
DeSoto ISD expresses its profound gratitude to all its
principals for advancing the district’s Triple-A Experience in Academics,
Arts, and Athletics and for modeling Eagle PRIDE—Purpose, Results,
Integrity, Determination, and Excellence as the district continues to Construct
its Future.
For more information, please visit www.desotoisd.org.