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As we celebrate Women’s History Month, the DeSoto Independent School District (ISD) honors the life and legacy of Kathryn “Kathy” Goad, an inspiring educator, leader, and community advocate whose work continues to resonate throughout the district and the DeSoto community. Goad’s dedication to education, tireless commitment to her students, and passion for making a positive impact have shaped the lives of countless young people in DeSoto, ensuring that her influence endures long after her passing in 2022.
Goad’s journey in education began more than 30 years ago. Throughout her distinguished career, she exemplified the values of service, leadership, and compassion. Her professional path within DeSoto ISD was marked by her willingness to take on various roles, each leaving an indelible mark on the students and colleagues she worked with. Goad’s approach to education was driven by a belief in second chances and an unwavering dedication to providing every student with the tools needed to succeed.
One of Goad’s most significant contributions was her leadership in the WINGS (Where I Now Gain Success) program. As the program’s director, she worked relentlessly to support students who had faced significant academic and personal challenges, helping them find a path back to success. Under her guidance, the program became a cornerstone of DeSoto ISD’s commitment to inclusive education and student achievement.
In addition to her leadership in WINGS, Goad’s influence extended into other key educational areas within the district. She served as head of the home economics department, fostering essential life skills in her students. Goad also directed the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, which received state awards and was recognized as one of the top five programs in Texas. Through her mentorship, she empowered students to take on leadership roles, build empathy, and develop skills that would serve them throughout their lives.
Her work with students went beyond academics. Goad was a passionate advocate for mental health support, believing that emotional well-being was integral to student success. Her leadership helped DeSoto ISD foster a supportive environment for both students and staff. Whether working directly with students in the classroom or participating in district-wide initiatives, she was always guided by the principle that every student deserved the opportunity to reach their full potential.
In 2017, Goad embraced a new challenge when she was elected to the DeSoto ISD Board of Trustees. During her six-year tenure, she served as board secretary, helping shape policies, drive district goals, and ensure that the needs of the community were always a priority. She was a strong advocate for academic excellence, expanding opportunities for underserved students, and implementing mental health resources for students facing challenges.
Her impact on the district and the broader DeSoto community earned her numerous accolades, culminating in the dedication of the DeSoto Alternative Education Program facility in her name. On Feb. 21, 2025, in recognition of her extraordinary contributions, the DeSoto ISD School Board of Trustees approved renaming facility the Kathy Goad DeSoto Alternative Education Program Center—a fitting tribute to the legacy she built in providing students a path toward a brighter future.
Goad’s legacy is further enshrined in the DeSoto ISD Hall of Honor, an exclusive recognition given to individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the district and its community. The Hall of Honor celebrates those whose work transcends the classroom and whose leadership has made DeSoto ISD a better place for students and staff alike. Induction into the Hall of Honor is not merely a recognition of professional success but a celebration of those who embody the values of service, integrity, and community-minded leadership.
Goad was inducted into the Hall of Honor where her name is now forever etched among the giants who helped shape the district. The ceremony, which took place in 2023, recognized her as a trailblazer in education and a role model for generations to come. The Hall of Honor now serves as a symbol of her enduring influence, ensuring that future students and educators will know the powerful story of Kathy Goad and her remarkable contributions to DeSoto ISD.
Goad passed away on July 8, 2022, leaving behind a legacy that is still felt throughout the district today. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, known for her kindness and for always putting others first. Her love for her family and her community was evident in everything she did, whether volunteering at local events, mentoring students, or serving on the school board.
Her passing was deeply felt by those who knew her, but her influence continues to reverberate in the lives of the students and educators who carried forward the lessons she imparted. Goad’s dedication to education and her commitment to helping students succeed are the foundation of the Kathy Goad DeSoto Alternative Education Program Center, which continues to provide students with the resources they need to overcome obstacles and achieve their academic goals.
As we reflect on her life during Women’s History Month, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Kathy Goad, a woman whose life was dedicated to service, education, and the empowerment of others. Her story is one of resilience, leadership, and a deep love for education—an inspiring example of the profound impact one individual can have in shaping the future. Goad’s legacy will forever be remembered and will continue to inspire future generations of educators, students, and community members in DeSoto, Texas, and beyond.