As we come near the end of 2025–2026 school year, DeSoto Parish Schools remains committed to strengthening communication and engagement with our entire community — including parents and families, staff, and community members.

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At Stanley High School, teachers cultivate an environment that goes far beyond a traditional workplace, creating a close-knit and supportive community where individuals feel valued both professionally and personally. Educators consistently uplift one another through significant life milestones—celebrating achievements, offering encouragement during challenges, and building lasting relationships that extend outside the classroom.

This strong sense of family is especially evident as many SHS  teachers choose fostering and adoption to grow their families. In these journeys, the school system has shown a deep and ongoing commitment to support—not only for the educators, but also for the children they welcome into their homes. Faculty and staff often come together to provide resources, guidance, and emotional encouragement, ensuring that both parents and children feel supported every step of the way.

Third grade teacher Elizabeth McLellan’s journey in foster care reflects both the challenges and the deep sense of purpose that come with opening her home to children in need.

The Heart of Stanley 

What made the difference was the community around her. She wasn’t the only one walking this path. Some of her colleagues were foster parents too, taking the same path to try and make a positive difference

“It has been such a blessing to have colleagues here that actually foster as well,” she shares, noting that those shared experiences create a bond that goes beyond the workplace and allows educators to uplift one another in ways others may not fully understand.

At the heart of their workplace was a belief that wasn’t just spoken, but lived: family comes first.

That support is rooted in something deeper than professional collaboration—it’s a reflection of Stanley’s culture. “Family comes first… and that’s not just something that’s said,” McCllelan explains. “Stanley sees us as a whole person… a caring community is not just something that’s said—it’s something you feel.”

Finding a Place to Call Home 

In the beginning, the household consisted of two adults, with no children yet—only the anticipation of what their future might hold. For Brandy Bell, a Stanley High School graduate, the journey to building her family was not immediate or predictable. Over time, three boys— including Stanley students Sammy and Willie—became part of her family through a gradual process marked by extensive discussions, administrative steps, moments of uncertainty, and a sustained sense of hope.

Choosing to plant roots back in the Stanley community, Bell was drawn to the same supportive and positive environment that once shaped her own experience as a student. Within this close-knit setting, her children have found something meaningful—a sense of stability and belonging.

“My kids get to come out of their hectic environment and the chaos they came from to this small area to find support from the whole school and find a home that they love,” Bell shared.

Before joining her family, their world was often unpredictable and difficult to navigate. In contrast, Stanley’s smaller, more personal atmosphere has provided consistent structure and attentive care. Over time, the school has become more than just a place to learn—it is a place where they are known, supported, and truly at home.

A Calling to Care: Creating a Safe Place for Every Child

For Lakesha Simpson, a PK–3rd grade special education teacher at Stanley High School, fostering began with what she saw every day in her classroom—children carrying more than they should. “I wanted to be a safe place that a child can fall into,” she shared, describing the calling that has now shaped eight years of her life.

Over time, that calling has grown into something much larger. Simpson has welcomed dozens of children into her home, offering them stability, care, and the chance to simply be kids. “It’s a very hard and long process, but it’s very rewarding,” she said. “Kids come to you that just need some stability… and knowing that I can be that for them—that’s the reward.”

Among those children is her adopted daughter, Paisley, a current Stanley student whose journey reflects both the complexity and the beauty of adoption..

At Stanley, Simpson has not walked that journey alone. “From day one, when a child comes in, the teachers, administration, and staff jump in,” she said. “They ask, ‘What do you need?’… and they embrace the children.”

It’s that collective support that defines the Stanley community. “We make sure that no child is left feeling like an outsider,” Simpson added. “We really take the value of family to heart here.”

This shared dedication fosters a culture rooted in compassion, stability, and care. It creates an environment where students and staff alike benefit from a network of individuals who genuinely look out for one another. Stanley High School continues to strengthen its sense of unity, demonstrating how a supportive community can positively impact the lives of everyone it serves.

In the halls of Logansport High School, Assistant Principal Patrick “Coach” Lindsey is known as a steady presence—an educator who believes in discipline, relationships, and the power of guiding young people toward success. But beyond the school day, Lindsey is stepping into a different kind of role—one that trades hallways for heroic quests, and student mentorship for mythic storytelling.

In 2025, Lindsey added a new title to his already distinguished career: published author.

His debut novel, The Horn of Winter: The Hunt for the White Stag, marks the beginning of an ambitious four-book epic fantasy series. It’s a story filled with ancient forests, sacred guardians, and legendary creatures—but at its core, it reflects something far more grounded: a lifetime of service, leadership, and belief in purpose.

A Life of Service, A Foundation for Story

Long before he ever imagined holding a printed novel in his hands, Lindsey’s life was defined by service to others.

Originally from Los Angeles, Lindsey’s journey brought him to Louisiana in 1990, where he would eventually build a life rooted in community, family, and purpose. After graduating from Grambling State University, what began as a career aspiration in criminal justice quickly evolved into something more personal.

He joined the Minden Police Department, where his work often brought him face-to-face with young people in difficult circumstances.

“I was noticing a trend,” Lindsey recalled. “Those young men and young ladies that were always getting in trouble—many of them just didn’t have positive role models in their lives.”

That realization changed everything.

Rather than seeing his role as limited to enforcement, Lindsey began to see opportunity—an opportunity to intervene, to connect, and to influence. He started visiting local schools, following up with students, and even stepping onto the basketball court in full uniform to build relationships.

It was there, in a gym at Webster Junior High, that a pivotal voice entered his life: Coach Elliot Gilbert.

“He told me, ‘You need to start coaching,’” Lindsey said. That simple encouragement sparked a lifelong shift.

Coaching, Mentorship, and Finding Purpose

Lindsey began coaching in local leagues, using sports as a bridge to mentorship. What started as a way to make his presence known in the community quickly grew into a calling.

“I remember my high school days—how much I loved sports,” he said. “I realized this is something I could do for the rest of my life.”

In 1999, an unexpected opportunity solidified that path. While on vacation in California, Lindsey interviewed over the phone for a coaching position at Homer High School—and got the job.

“I didn’t know the principal. They didn’t know me,” he said. “But everything just aligned.”

For Lindsey, those moments weren’t coincidence—they were purpose.

“I am where I am today because God aligned everything the way it is,” he said.

After leaving law enforcement, Lindsey continued his commitment to youth as Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Minden—a full-circle moment for someone who had once been a club member himself.

“It was like coming back home,” he said.

Though the role introduced new challenges—particularly in fundraising and organizational leadership—it reinforced his passion for working with young people. Whether in a gym, a classroom, or a community center, Lindsey’s mission remained the same: to guide, mentor, and uplift.

Today, that mission continues in DeSoto Parish Schools, where he serves as Assistant Principal at Logansport High School.

A Story Years in the Making

While Lindsey’s professional journey unfolded in service and education, another passion quietly waited in the background.

“I’ve always wanted to write,” he said.

In the early 1990s, he even completed a manuscript titled A Good Man. Encouraged by his wife to pursue publication, Lindsey ultimately chose to set it aside, focusing instead on his growing career in coaching and leadership.

But the desire never disappeared. Years later, inspiration returned—unexpectedly, but powerfully.

“The idea just came to me,” Lindsey said. “The Horn of Winter… the White Stag… I could see it as a story. I could see it as a movie.”

That vision became the foundation for The Horn of Winter: The Hunt for the White Stag, a novel set in the mythical forest of Ashenwood. Within its pages, readers encounter ancient legends, sacred beasts, and a mysterious horn whose call awakens long-forgotten guardians.

At the center of it all is the legend of the White Stag—a creature tied to the fate of the forest and those who seek it.

From Idea to Publication

Turning that vision into reality required more than imagination—it required action.

Lindsey began outlining the story, developing characters, and building the mythology that would eventually span an entire series. But like many aspiring authors, the question remained: how do you bring a book to life?

The answer came through an unexpected connection.His wife, a longtime educator, had a colleague who was a self-published author. What started as a casual joke—asking if she might review his work—quickly became a turning point.

“She called back within 30 minutes,” Lindsey said. “She said, ‘I thought it was going to be a self-help book… I didn’t know it was this.’”

Her reaction validated what Lindsey had begun to believe: his story had potential.

With her guidance, Lindsey edited and prepared the manuscript for publication, ultimately choosing the self-publishing route—a path increasingly embraced by modern authors.

“It allows you to cut out the middleman,” he explained. “And it gives you control.”

Today, The Horn of Winter: The Hunt for the White Stag is available on major platforms including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million—an accomplishment Lindsey once only imagined.

“You never really imagine something you created being on a bookstore shelf,” he said.

A Personal Connection

For Lindsey, publishing the book was more than a professional milestone—it was deeply personal.

He dedicated the novel to his grandson, a decision that brought unexpected emotion when he first read the dedication aloud. “I didn’t even get past the second word,” he said. “I just broke down.”

That moment captured the heart of Lindsey’s journey—not just as an author, but as a man who values legacy, family, and impact.

“I wanted something with my last name on it that could last for him,” he said.

A Story Rooted in Real-Life Values

Though The Horn of Winter is set in a fictional world, its themes are grounded in Lindsey’s real-life experiences.

“Protecting others, standing up in the face of danger, honoring tradition—those are lessons I’ve learned throughout my career,” he said.

From law enforcement to coaching to school leadership, Lindsey has lived the very values he now writes about. His characters face battles that mirror the challenges of leadership, responsibility, and courage—concepts he has spent decades teaching to students.

It’s no surprise, then, that his work is already resonating with young readers.

“I’ve had students asking for copies,” he said. “One student already started reading it.”

For an educator, there’s no greater validation.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Legacy

The Horn of Winter: The Hunt for the White Stag is only the beginning. Lindsey has already mapped out the full arc of the series, with three additional books planned:

The Horn of Winter: The Broken Antler

The Horn of Winter: Winter’s Warden

The Horn of Winter: The First Guardian (a prequel)

Book two is already in the editing phase—a sign that Lindsey’s creative momentum is only building.

He’s also beginning to connect with readers through community events, including a regional book festival hosted by the Shreve Memorial Library—his first major opportunity to introduce the series to a wider audience.

A Future Yet to Be Written

As Lindsey balances his role as an assistant principal with his growing identity as an author, he remains grounded in the same philosophy that has guided his entire life: purpose.

In a recent conversation, a community member offered him a piece of advice that stuck. “In a year, you’re going to have a decision to make,” the man told him. “Whether to take your writing to the next level—or stay where you are.”

For Lindsey, that moment—if it comes—will not be about choosing one path over another. It will be about continuing to follow the calling that has always guided him.

Because whether in a classroom, a gym, or the pages of a novel, Patrick Lindsey’s mission remains unchanged: to lead, to inspire, and to leave something meaningful behind.

And in DeSoto Parish Schools, that commitment reflects something bigger than one individual story. It reflects a culture where passion, purpose, and possibility are nurtured—where educators are empowered to lead, create, and inspire both inside and beyond the classroom.

It’s what sets this community apart.

It’s what drives stories like Lindsey’s forward.

It’s The DeSoto Difference.

Arklatex residents can come meet Lindsey and other local authors at the Children’s Book Festival on May 2nd, 2026 from 10 AM - 4 PM on the LSUS campus in Shreveport.The event is  hosted by the Shreve Memorial Library.

Congratulations to our Lady Panthers, Lady Tigers, and Lady Griffins for advancing to the semi-finals in the 2026 LHSAA Softball State championship. Your hard work and sacrifice has paid off! DeSoto Parish is proud you!

Big congratulations to two incredible educators! 

Mrs. Severin has been named a semi-finalist for Louisiana Teacher of the Year, and Mr. Brian Anderson has been selected as a semi-finalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year! 

These honors are a true reflection of your hard work, dedication, and the positive impact you make every day in the lives of students and your school community. We are so proud of both of you and excited to see all that you continue to accomplish!

A day full of connection, exploration, and opportunity!  Future educators toured campuses across DeSoto Parish, met incredible teams, and got a firsthand look at what makes our schools so special.

We loved welcoming passionate educators and sharing the heart of DeSoto—where every classroom is a chance to grow, inspire, and belong.

Congratulations to our DeSoto Parish Elite Scholars! These outstanding students have earned this honor through exceptional achievement—scoring 50+ on a CLEP exam, 3+ on an AP test, or 25+ on the ACT. Your hard work and dedication set you apart, and we are incredibly proud of you!

Also, a huge Congratulations to Cecilia Flanders on earning a $1,500 scholarship from Allen Green & Williamson L.L.P.!  Your hard work, dedication, and achievements have truly paid off. Wishing you continued success in all your future endeavors!

Alice’s artwork was selected for inclusion in the Sketching the Wild exhibition, a collaborative initiative between the Sci-Port Discovery Center and the Shreveport Regional Arts Council. All submissions underwent a rigorous jury review and selection process. The exhibition will be on display at Artspace in downtown Shreveport from April 11 through May 22.

Her piece, titled When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth, is a mixed-media illustration that reflects her enthusiasm for dinosaurs.

DeSoto Parish is proud of you!

Proud to be part of Love the Boot Week 2026! 

Thirty DeSoto Parish School Board employees teamed up with Expand Energy to help clean up our community, collecting a total of 60 bags of trash. Thank you to everyone who showed up and made a difference—small efforts add up to big impact!

Check out the 2026-2027 Academic School Calendar!

Online registration for DeSoto Ready Start Pre-K (2026–2027 school year) is now open! Families can register at desotoreadystart.com by clicking the “Registration” link.

✅ Deadline to register: May 31, 2026
After this date, families will be placed on a waitlist.

For questions, contact Tina Anderson at tina.anderson@desotopsb.com or call (318) 872-1198.

Families can stay connected to their child’s school information anytime, anywhere by downloading the free JCampus Student App.

If you currently have a student portal account, all you have to do is download the app, select DeSoto as your district, and login-- It's that simple!

With the app, families can quickly access:

✅ Grades

✅ Attendance

✅ Discipline

✅ Schedule

✅ School Communications

Download the app today by scanning the QR code in the graphic or visiting www.edgear.com/app.

Don’t have a JCampus account yet?

No problem! Families who need help getting started can use our JCampus account set-up guide to create an account and begin accessing student information.

Staying connected through JCampus helps families stay informed and engaged in their child’s success.

Check out the video to the right if you need guidance on on app installation and setup.