DeSoto Serves to make a difference in the lives of our students by instilling a sense of community and responsibility, providing a positive and collaborative culture, and promoting excellence through innovative educational experiences and service to others.
DeSoto Parish Schools
2025-26 School Calendar Approved
The DeSoto Parish School Board approved the 2025-26 school year calendar at their January meeting.
Superintendent's Message
January is National School Board Recognition Month!
Check out Superintendent Clay Corley's message tribute to DeSoto Parish School Board members celebrating National School Board Recognition Month! Thank you for your service to our parish and families!
Great News
Stanley High School Celebrates Grand Opening of Student Activity Center
The Stanley High School community and DeSoto Parish Schools celebrated the grand opening of the new Stanley High School Student Activities Center on Thursday, January 16, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, made possible through the support of the December 11, 2021, bond proposal, represents a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to enhancing facilities, athletic fields, and classroom spaces for students and staff.
The event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1:00 PM, followed by a spirited community pep rally and the dedication of the new court at 5:30 PM. The evening culminated in home basketball games featuring the Panthers and Lady Panthers taking on Converse in their inaugural matchups in the new facility.
Superintendent Clay Corley emphasized the importance of community collaboration in making this project a reality, stating, “This project is because of your commitment, and because of the interest and vision of Mr. Coday Johnston, Mr. Brian Anderson, and the administration at Stanley High School for wanting the best facilities for our Panthers.”
Former District 6 Board Member and current Police Jury Member Coday Johnston expressed his pride in the new facility, saying, “A lot of time was spent in the planning and a lot of time was spent in the work of this building. I am super excited for our community. This is ours—it is not mine, it’s not the principal's, it’s not the Superintendent’s. It is ours. This facility will be a model for those to look to in the state of Louisiana.”
The new Student Activity Center features modern amenities designed to support student activities, athletic events, and community gatherings, and to boast Stanley High School in student and community engagement.
A feature story about DeSoto Parish Schools' Grace House aired on KTAL News Channel 6 in a segment titled "Something Good with Lynn Vance on January 27. Check out the news story in the link below:
Grace House giving a second chance to DeSoto Parish students that need it
Pictured from left to right:
Kevin Garner, Supervisor of Student Services
Lynn Vance, KTAL News
Kristofor Kolniak, Program Coordinator-DeSoto Parish Schools' Grace House.
The Louisiana Department of Education has recognized DeSoto Parish Schools’ Alternative Education program with the prestigious Exemplary Status designation, highlighting the district's outstanding efforts to serve students who face unique challenges. This honor reflects the exceptional work of district leadership, the dedication of the Alternative Education team, and an unwavering commitment to meeting the diverse needs of students.
Kevin Gardner, Supervisor of Student Services, added, “This esteemed recognition is symbolic of the amazing transformative work happening at Desoto Schools’ Grace House. The site will serve as a model for alternative education. Our partnership with the Louisiana Department of Education will play a significant role in ensuring effective Alternative Education programs in our state.”
The scoring for Exemplary is based on key performance areas, including:
1. Transitional Support and Planning
2. Identified Academic Interventions and Graduation Pathways
3. Identified Behavioral Interventions
4. Staff Professional Development
5. Counseling and Mental Health Supports
6. Annual Climate Survey
Kristofor Kolniak, Program Coordinator of the DeSoto Parish Schools’ Grace House states, “We are honored to receive this credibility from the Louisiana Department of Education. It is a testament to Desoto Parish School Boards’ vision, mission, support and alignment. This recognition would not be attainable without the compassionate, dedicated Grace House team that works diligently to serve our DeSoto Parish community.”
DeSoto Parish Schools will now partner with the Louisiana Department of Education to support the enhancement of Alternative Education programs across the state. This collaboration includes sharing strategies during monthly calls and serving as a model site for other districts to visit and learn from.
"We are incredibly proud of our Grace House team for their dedication and innovative approach to meeting the needs of every student," said Superintendent Clay Corley. "This recognition as an Exemplary Status district reaffirms our commitment to ensuring all students, regardless of their challenges, have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”
DeSoto Parish Schools remain dedicated to innovation and excellence in education, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, no matter their circumstances.
DeSoto Parish Schools Featured in NIET 25th Anniversary Report
This year, the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) celebrates its 25th anniversary with the release of Building Educator Excellence: 25 Years of Impact, a comprehensive report highlighting the achievements of its partners nationwide.
DeSoto Parish Schools is honored to be prominently featured in this milestone publication. Highlights include:
North DeSoto High School (Page 34): Showcased for its commitment to instructional excellence and continuous improvement.
A Story of Success (Page 72): Detailing how innovative practices and teamwork in DeSoto Parish Schools have expanded opportunities for students.
This recognition reflects the dedication of our educators and staff in creating meaningful opportunities for students and building capacity for future success.
We invite our stakeholders to review the full report and celebrate the shared accomplishments of our district. Together, we will continue striving for excellence in education.
District Happenings
Share Your Feedback About District Communications
Over the past year, as a district we have focused on strengthening our systems of communication with everyone in the parish including parents and families, staff, and community members.
At this halfway point in the 2024-25 school year, we want to hear from you on how you are receiving messages from and about our schools.
Please take a few minutes to respond to a survey about how we communicate to help us to continue to improve our efforts to connect with our community!
NDLE Little Griffins Like to Serve Others!
First Grade Students at North DeSoto Lower Elementary want to serve others by collecting items for the victims of the California wildfires. The following items can be brought the NDLE front office by January 31st:
Warm Clothing, Hygiene Products, Blankets, Towels, N95 and P100 Masks, Batteries, Non-perishable food, Extra Eyeglasses, Contact Solution, First Aid Supplies, Dog & Cat Food, Meal Replacement Bars & Drinks.
Any grade level can participate. If there are any businesses or families that would like to sponsor the shipping of these items, please contact Mrs. Arinder at stephanie.arinder@desotopsb.com or call the office at 925-2383.
You Matter Campaign
The “You Matter” Campaign: A Movement of Support, Compassion, and Mental Health Awareness
At DeSoto Parish, we believe in the power of community, connection, and compassion. With this belief at the heart of our mission, we are excited to announce the launch of the "You Matter Campaign"—a heartfelt initiative designed to promote mental health, well-being, and suicide prevention for both students and staff. This campaign focuses on reminding every individual within our school community that they are valued, seen, and heard, especially during difficult times.
The “You Matter” Campaign: An Overview
The “You Matter” Campaign is a school-wide initiative that encourages everyone to reach out, support one another, and foster an environment where mental health is openly discussed, understood, and prioritized. As part of the campaign, we are shining a spotlight on suicide prevention and providing essential resources for individuals who may be struggling with thoughts of self-harm or despair. Through this initiative, we are working to create a culture of kindness, open dialogue, and emotional support where no one feels alone.
The message is simple yet powerful: We matter. You matter. We all matter.
You Matter Week: A Week of Awareness and Activities
To kick off the campaign, we will be hosting You Matter Week, a school-wide initiative aimed at promoting mental health awareness, self-care, and kindness. Each day of the week will have a specific theme designed to foster well-being and encourage positive practices:
Monday: “Self-Care Day” – On this day, students and staff will be encouraged to reflect on healthy habits like mindfulness, exercise, and the importance of rest and sleep. Everyone will have the opportunity to take part in activities promoting physical and mental wellness.
Tuesday: “Kindness Counts” – Random acts of kindness will be promoted throughout the day. Students can participate by writing anonymous notes to friends, teachers, or staff members, sharing affirmations such as “You matter” and other positive messages.
Wednesday: “Talk About It” – On this day, peer-led discussion circles will be set up, allowing students to engage in open conversations about mental health, how to identify when a friend might be struggling, and how they can offer support. This initiative is designed to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage empathy and communication.
Thursday: “Hope Wall” – A large bulletin board will be set up where students can anonymously post notes about what gives them hope or things that make them feel good about themselves. This collective display of positivity will serve as a reminder that hope and strength come from within and from our connections to others.
Friday: “Gratitude Day” – Students and staff will take time to reflect on the things they are grateful for, contributing to a sense of positivity and self-reflection. Writing down what they are thankful for can uplift spirits and remind everyone of the good in their lives.
Additional Initiatives During You Matter Campaign
In addition to the theme days, a variety of activities will take place across our campuses to support mental health awareness and well-being:
Mental Health Resource Fairs: These fairs will be held on each campus, providing vital information and resources on mental health services available to students, staff, and their families.
Teacher & Staff Training: Our educators and staff will participate in specialized training focused on mental health awareness, ensuring they are equipped with the tools to support students and each other in challenging times.
You Matter Speakers Series: Inspirational speakers, including mental health professionals, will visit our schools to talk about the importance of mental wellness, resilience, and how to support one another.
You Matter Mural or Art Project: Students and staff will collaborate to create a mural or artwork that reflects the theme of the campaign. This will serve as a permanent reminder of our collective commitment to mental health and the value of each individual within our community.
Wellness Ambassadors Sign-Up: We will be encouraging students to sign up as "Wellness Ambassadors"—peer leaders who are committed to spreading awareness, offering support, and being advocates for mental health and well-being in our schools.
You Matter T-Shirt Day: A day dedicated to spreading the powerful message that we are all valued, seen, and heard. On this special day, everyone is encouraged to wear a "You Matter" t-shirt to show solidarity and support for mental health awareness.
Join Us in Spreading the “You Matter” Message
The "You Matter Campaign" is more than just an event—it is a movement to create a compassionate and supportive school environment for all. We invite everyone in the DeSoto Parish School District to join us in fostering a culture of kindness, empathy, and understanding. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students, staff, and families.
Remember, no matter what challenges we face, you matter, and you are never alone.
The campaign kicks off on February 3, 2025. Stay tuned for more details about upcoming events and how you can get involved in this important campaign. Let’s make every individual feel seen, heard, and valued!
Child Find
DeSoto Parish Schools can screen and evaluate to see if children may need services to support their growth both educationally and developmentally. If your child is 3 or younger, contact us at 318-270-2634 or fill out this form and we will call you: https://tinyurl.com/yzfy4n86
Dates to Remember
Feb. 17 - 21 - Winter Break
Feb. 24 - Student Parent Teacher Conferences - Virtual Day for Students
Mar. 14 - 3rd Grading Period Ends
Mar. 31 - April 4 - Spring Break
Important Resources
We have compiled a list of resources to help you throughout the school year! If you have any additional questions, please feel free to fill out the "Ask a Question" form on our website.
Transportation Resources or call us at (318) 872-2798
Download the DeSoto Parish Mobile App
(318) 872-1198
(318) 872-2836
www.desotopsb.com
399 Jenkins Street
Mansfield, LA 71052