A.R.T.S. Academy is a forward-thinking K-8 educational institution dedicated to empowering young minds through a unique blend of rigorous academics, artistic expression, leadership development, and creative career pathways. We believe that every child has the potential to excel when provided with personalized learning opportunities that nurture both intellectual and creative growth.
Located in the DeSoto area, A.R.T.S. Academy was founded to address the need for a holistic approach to education, ensuring that students are not only prepared for success in college, careers, and beyond but are also encouraged to explore their passions in the arts and technology. Our innovative curriculum fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, equipping students to thrive in an evolving world.
A.R.T.S. Academy operates under Academy of Gifted Students, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, committed to educational equity and excellence.
At A.R.T.S. Academy, we are more than just a school—we are a community of innovators, compassionate leaders, and courageous artists who are ready to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Britni is a transformational leader by every definition of the style. In her leadership capacity, she seeks to build strong relationships with every member of her team and grow each of them toward the goal they have set for themselves. Her passion for education began as a student at Cedar Hill High School where she first served as a Teacher's assistant. Britni Cumby is the Lead Founder and Proposed Superintendent for A.R.T.S. Academy. She has been committed to this mission since 2017.
Britni Cumby began her career in education as a Kindergarten teacher leader at Golden Rule Charter School in Desoto, Texas. Most recently, Britni served as the Founding Assistant Principal at Rocketship Public Schools in Fort Worth, Texas. Prior to this Britni spent six years of service at Uplift Hampton in Desoto as an elementary teacher, summer school administrator, IB coordinator, and teacher collaboration facilitator. Britni received her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas at Dallas and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baylor University.
When she is not working, Britni enjoys dancing, singing karaoke, and cooking. She is a dedicated wife, a proud stepmother, and a puppy mom. She is an excellent host and the epicenter for joy, games, and laughter amongst family and friends. Her smile lights up a room and her positive energy and optimize will inspire anyone to reach their goals and achieve their dreams.
Cassandra is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience as a residential realtor, known for her dedication to helping clients find their dream homes. In addition to her real estate expertise, she is an entrepreneur at heart, owning a thriving custom t-shirt company that brings creativity to life and co-owning an investment company with her husband. A proud notary, she is committed to serving her community with reliability and professionalism.
Outside of work, Cassandra is a devoted wife, mother of four, and grandmother to two, finding joy in her close-knit family. Her dynamic career and family life are a testament to her passion, determination, and ability to balance it all.
Danielle Diaz is an inspiring figure who adeptly merges a distinguished judicial career with a heartfelt commitment to community service. A proud native of the Dallas area, Danielle attended elementary and high school in the Lancaster Independent School District. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Government and Sociology from the University of Texas at Austin, followed by a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, Texas.
Since March 2015, she has served as an Associate Judge for the 330th District Court in Dallas, where she passionately tackles social issues impacting families and ensures that marginalized voices are recognized. Each day, she deepens her understanding of the legal challenges families face, including custody disputes, divorce proceedings, and child welfare cases.
Beyond her judicial responsibilities, Judge Diaz is actively involved in various organizations, including the Upsilon Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the Junior League of Dallas, and Southern Metroplex (TX) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. She is married and a proud mother of two, and she is a devoted member of her church community in Dallas. In her leisure time, she enjoys yoga, cooking, and photography. Judge Diaz frequently participates in community panels and speaking engagements, reflecting her ongoing dedication to civic engagement. Her life beautifully intertwines the realms of law and art, justice and creativity, professionalism and passion.
Damian Lane is an experienced Sr. Graphic Designer and Art Director with a strong background in branding, visual storytelling, and project management. Currently serving as a Senior Graphic Designer at The University of Texas at Arlington, he leads the development of marketing and communication materials that impact students, faculty, and community partners. His role involves overseeing branding guidelines, managing projects, and mentoring student designers. Previously, he worked as an Art Director at EP+Co, where he provided creative leadership for major brands like Verizon, The UPS Store, and Michelin, crafting strategic visual campaigns across multiple platforms.
With a career spanning higher education, corporate branding, and the entertainment industry, Damian has also served as an Art Director at 4th & Crawford, developing brand identities for professional athletes and influencers. His earlier experience at Texas A&M University-San Antonio combined graphic design with recruitment marketing, where he designed impactful materials to attract prospective students. His expertise in concept development, digital and print design, and cross-functional collaboration makes him a versatile creative professional with a keen ability to elevate brand presence.
Keisha Benson is a Coast Guard veteran and retired surgical assistant with 16 years in gastroenterology. After retirement, she became PTA president at her child’s school, organizing events and fundraisers to strengthen the community. Keisha is also a travel agent with Robinson Travel Group, helping clients plan dream vacations. She is passionate about giving back and making a positive impact in her community.
Nicole Rogers is a dedicated professional passionate about supporting youth, advocating for child safety, and fostering community connections. She holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science, a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Jarvis Christian College, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. With extensive experience in youth development, event planning, community outreach, and child welfare, she is committed to empowering the next generation. As a Youth Director, she helps young people strengthen their relationship with Christ, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and grow resilience. She designs and leads mentorship programs that create safe spaces for youth to thrive. In her role as a Child Abuse Supervisor, she oversees programs that prevent and address child abuse, ensuring policies protect vulnerable children. She collaborates with families, community partners, and agencies to provide critical support and resources.
Beyond her work in youth development and child welfare, Nicole serves as a Community Liaison, building relationships with families, schools, and stakeholders to share resources and advocate for meaningful causes. She also coordinates impactful events that promote community connection, believing in the power of collective effort to create lasting change. Whether managing logistics, budgets, or volunteers, she is dedicated to organizing events that strengthen communities and bring people together. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to making a difference by supporting those in need, fostering relationships, and advocating for a safer, more connected world. She looks forward to continuing her work in empowering children and families within A.R.T.S. Academy.
Dr. Anita Mcgruder; Clinical Psychologist
Judge Mike Jones; Judge, Commercial Real Estate
Dr. Amaju Loving; Professor at University of North Texas- Dallas
Charlonda Thompson; Commercial Real Estate
Brandon Butler; Certified Public Accountant
Evelyn Canady; Human Resources Compensation Manager