Teaching & Learning (CONSTRAINT 1)

Employee of the Month

I'm pleased to inform the board that Mrs. Tanya Dillard has been named Employee of the Month, receiving our "NAILED IT" award. This recognition honors her outstanding commitment to our core values — Nurture, Achieve, Innovate, Lead, Educate, and Deliver. Mrs. Dillard continues to set a high standard through her dedication, professionalism, and positive impact.

CCMR- EMS Collaboration Meeting

The recent CCMR Economic Mobility Systems monthly meeting was a great success, fostering collaboration among counselors, DHS administrators, the Gear Up team, the RED team, and the Chief Academic Officer. The group engaged in meaningful discussions and made significant progress toward advancing our shared goals, strengthening support systems for economic mobility. 

AI Collaborative- Hosted by Community in Schools Foundation 

I recently attended a highly valuable AI training session hosted by the Communities in Schools Foundation. The training brought together representatives from multiple districts across the county, providing a great opportunity for collaboration and knowledge sharing. It was an insightful experience that enhanced our understanding of AI applications and how we can leverage them to better support our students and communities. 

November 7th Professional Learning Planning 

Effective planning is underway for the November 7th session, focusing on writing instruction and aligning practice closely with state assessment standards. This targeted approach aims to equip educators with strategies and tools to enhance student writing skills while ensuring alignment with assessment expectations, ultimately supporting improved student performance. 

Choice Application Planning/Campaign

The Choice Programming campaign meeting was successfully conducted in collaboration with the Communications team and Superintendent Rodgers, in partnership with the RED team. The meeting fostered productive discussions around strategy, outreach, and implementation to ensure broad community engagement and awareness. With strong leadership and teamwork, the group is eager to begin the application process and advance this important initiative that aims to expand educational opportunities and meet the diverse needs of our students. 

Extended PLCS at Frank Moates 

We recently hosted extended Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) at Frank Moates to provide focused support for teachers in refining their instructional delivery and lesson execution. These sessions created a collaborative environment where educators could share best practices, analyze student data, and engage in meaningful discussions to strengthen their teaching strategies. By dedicating this time for professional growth, we aim to enhance instructional effectiveness, promote consistency in lesson implementation, and ultimately improve student learning outcomes across classrooms. 

CCMR Leadership Team Meeting (Dr. Darden opening meeting)

School Leadership (CONSTRAINT 3) 

This week, I engaged in six campus visits and multiple district leadership meetings, all focused on strengthening academics, alignment, and accountability systems.

On Monday and Tuesday, I visited The Meadows twice for a deep dive into STAAR goal setting with our Region 10 consultant and Principal Ms. Hicks. On Monday, Dr. Strickland also joined us, adding valuable perspective to the discussion. Together we engaged in rich dialogue around Domain 3 of the state accountability system and its direct implications for instructional planning and delivery.

On Tuesday morning, I joined Ms. Lunkin, our Region 10 consultant, and the DHS assistant principals for the AP Academy, where APs engaged in classroom walks to calibrate evidence for T-TESS. Later that day, I visited Katherine Johnson to observe and support the same calibration work with their team. In both settings, I stressed the importance of interrater reliability so leaders across the district remain tightly aligned — essential for instructional quality and the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) alignment of classroom instruction across all campus administrators.

To build on this alignment, I partnered with Chief McCloud’s team to consolidate Eduphoria’s multiple walkthrough forms into one official district walkthrough form and a summative T-TESS form. This will ensure coherence and consistency across every campus.

Beyond campus visits, I participated in Dr. Rodgers’ weekly Executive Leadership Meeting, where we reviewed PEIMS coding practices to ensure accurate capture of data tied to accountability and funding.

I also attended the CCMR Leadership Meeting, where updates were provided alongside our Economic Mobility Systems partners. Dr. Darden did an excellent job opening the meeting and remaining present throughout the dialogue. This intentional conversation reflected the true partnership between Teaching & Learning, campus leadership, and external partners to align our efforts and create stronger pathways for students’ postsecondary readiness.

Following that, I attended the faculty meeting at Cockrell Hill, where Ms. Lowe announced her retirement. Together with Dr. Davison, we gathered staff feedback to help shape the principal profile, answered questions, and provided clarity on next steps for the transition.

Finally, I supported DeSoto High School in the realignment and calibration of SPED systems. With many moving parts, this reset required clarity of roles and responsibilities, tighter systems of accountability, and deeper engagement with teachers, staff, students, and parents. Dr. Darden is reinforcing this work by convening a half-day Administrator Retreat on Friday to reflect on the first six weeks, celebrate wins, identify areas of growth, and reset for greater coherence and instructional impact.

The impact of this work is evident:

• Teachers are receiving sharper, calibrated feedback to strengthen instruction.

• Students benefit from clearer systems, higher expectations, and consistent supports.

• Staff and parents are engaged in transparent dialogue that informs leadership decisions.

This work is important to the Board because it demonstrates leaders actively using evidence, reflection, and accountability to drive continuous improvement. It exemplifies PRIDE through Purpose in aligning to Board Goals, Results in stronger instructional, SPED, and CCMR systems, Integrity in transparent engagement, Determination to recalibrate after the first six weeks, and Excellence in keeping student outcomes at the forefront.

Campus Events (Sept. 28 – Oct. 4)

• Sept 30 – AP Academy (DeSoto HS)

• Oct 1 – Weekly Executive Training

• Oct 2 – SPED Reset: Driving Fidelity & Accountability Together (DHS)

• Oct 3 – DHS Administrative Team Retreat

• Oct 4 – WRE Ascension Dance Company at Dance Africa Festival, Klyde Warren Park

Finance 

(CONSTRAINT 2)

District Revenues for FY26

 as of Sept 26, 2025

Maintenance & Operations General Fund (199)

• Local Revenue (57XX): $25,785

•  State Revenue Available School Funds (5811): $199,871

•  Foundation School Program (5812): $1,635,009

• TRS On-Behalf (5831): $442,660

• SHARS (5931): $98,561

• JROTC (5949): $18,114

Child Nutrition (240)

• Breakfast Revenue (57xx): $0.00

• Lunch Revenue (5751): $5,034

Debt Service (I&S) Fund (511)

• Local Tax Collections (5711/12/18/19): $64,116

Petroleum Update as of 09.30.25

Two fuel providers:

Mansfield Oil

• Diesel: $6,144.58

• Gasoline: $4,101.45

• Freight: $4,236.60 (Base delivery is $195 plus smaller additional freight

City of DeSoto

• Diesel:  $789.77

• Gasoline: $6,460.58

• Freight:  $0

Summary

Diesel:  $6,934.35

Gasoline: $10,562.03

Freight: $4,236.60

Human Capital Management

1. Teacher PREP Allotment Identification – LASO Grant Cycle 4
   HCM is actively working to identify eligible Teacher PREP Allotment information to support funding alignment for LASO Grant Cycle 4, ensuring strategic use of resources to strengthen instructional capacity.

2. Commit Partnership Announcement – Testing Reimbursement Support
   In partnership with Commit, HCM is launching a reimbursement initiative to remove the financial burden of certification testing for uncertified teachers, promoting equitable access to professional advancement.

3. Examination Preparation Planning for Uncertified Teachers
   HCM is progressing in the development of targeted examination preparation supports, including study resources and coaching, to help uncertified teachers successfully meet certification requirements.

4. Principal Profile Development – Cockrell Hill Staff Meeting (October 1, 2025)
   HCM will meet with Cockrell Hill staff to collaboratively develop a principal leadership profile that reflects campus needs and community values.

5. Navex Incident Reporting – Lunch & Learn Series Launch (October 1, 2025)
   The first session of our Lunch & Learn series will introduce staff to the Navex Incident Reporting system, reinforcing our commitment to transparency, safety, and ethical practices.

6. Para to Teacher Cohort Meeting – Dallas College (October 1, 2025)
   HCM will host a cohort meeting with Dallas College to support paraprofessionals transitioning into certified teaching roles, strengthening our internal talent pipeline.

7. Retirement Celebration – Mr. Davis (October 2, 2025)
   HCM will honor Mr. Davis for his dedicated service with a retirement celebration, recognizing his contributions to the district and community.

8. Hybrid Work Day – Compliance & TEA Training (October 3, 2025)
   Staff will participate in a hybrid work day to complete annual compliance training and SB 571 TEA training, ensuring alignment with state mandates and district policies.

9. Mentor Teacher Kickoff (September 29, 2025)
   HCM launched the Mentor Teacher Kickoff to support new educators through structured mentorship, fostering professional growth and retention.

Student & Staff Support Services

Athletics

• Dr. Davison & Dr. Morrow met and began developing the questions and timeline for the Director of Athletics interview.

• The team will confirm the interview committee and start reaching out to applicants in the pool.

Attendance & Truancy

• Audits & Truancy: Completed audits (10 students per campus), launched “Friday Checks,” reinforced 3-10 letter schedule, truancy packets due Oct 6.

• Compliance & Support: Issued WAIPs on homebound/doctor coding, created McKinney-Vento absenteeism process, and supported PEIMS with At-Risk training.

• Grants & PD: Submitted PD request for attendance/truancy recap; coordinating Oct 6 Stronger Connections Grant training and fall climate survey; Texas Trust Grant committee established.

• Operations: Sent guidance on bus-routing excused coding; upcoming DHS Attendance/PEIMS support visit.

Child Nutrition

• Met with vendors who submitted bids for new serving lines in some of our cafeterias. Thanks to Mr. Smith and Mrs. Warnie for accompanying the Child Nutrition team and the vendors to provide support.

• Finalized install time for the new dishwasher being installed at College Prep this weekend.

• Dr. Morrow has been working with Mr. Southall to ensure that Whitsons' staff completes the mandatory Child Abuse Reporting modules from T.E.A.

Fine Arts

• Dance Highlights:

  • The Ascension Dance Company of Woodridge Elementary, led by Hope Crockett, will perform at Klyde Warren Park this Saturday at 12:30 PM.

  • The McCowan Dance Company, led by Lamia Stromile, will perform at halftime at the Duncanville vs DeSoto game with the Duncanville High Hats after completing a dance clinic hosted on Saturday, September 27th.

  • The High School Dance Company, led by Regina Tucker, gave an incredible performance during halftime at the Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers game on Sunday, September 28th.

• Visual Arts Initiatives:

  • Our Art Department is collaborating with the DeSoto Police Department and touring their facilities to explore a mural project at the station on Thursday, October 2nd.

  • Jo Nava and James Gipson are teaming up to have Advanced Art students help build and paint the props for this year’s marching show. Work begins Monday, October 6th.

Health Services

The district nursing team continued with their annual screenings

across district campuses. The information details the types of screenings that are being conducted. Grade levels being screened are Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First, Third, Fifth, and Seventh Grades:

• Vision screenings

• Hearing screenings

• Acanthosis screenings (Pre-Diabetes)

Parent Engagement

• Provided campuses with templates and reviewed documentation to ensure Goals Night (Parent-Teacher Conferences/Title I) materials were accurate and compliant.

• Supported both elementary and high school campuses during their Goals Night events to strengthen parent engagement and alignment with Title I requirements. In preparation for upcoming initiatives.

• Continued planning for the All Pro Dad Launch Party and organized All Pro Dad Campus Captains to streamline campus-level leadership.

• Supported Meadows with reorganizing their PTA, which successfully rechartered on 9/30, and attended Amber Terrace’s first PTA meeting to provide guidance and encouragement as they begin their work. These efforts directly support the district’s commitment to building strong family-school partnerships, ensuring compliance, and fostering community engagement that drives student success.

Student Support Services

• Character Counts

This six-week grading period, we’re highlighting Responsibility, one

of the Six Pillars of Character—Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. It includes

integrated lessons, visual reminders, and recognition programs celebrating students and staff who embody these traits.

• Discipline

Procedure Updates

To support equity and consistency, we're refining discipline

procedures based on legislative updates, including digital referral

processes and restorative practices. Campus leaders will receive updated guidance and training to ensure alignment with the district values.

• Wellness Wednesdays

On October 1, we kicked off our Wellness Wednesdays, which is a

a monthly initiative designed to support staff well-being through

themed experiences that promote relaxation, reflection, and personal

growth. Our virtual and/or in-person monthly activities

include financial wellness, physical wellness, mental wellness (mindfulness), and Wind Down Wednesdays.

Student Safety

• Dr. Morrow attended the Safety 1st Conference at Region 10 ESC on Wednesday. The conference provided participants with information and strategies related school safety and security.

• Dr. Morrow also began conducting our own internal Intruder Detection Audits (IDA's). Any findings and/or recommendations will be shared with the campus principals.

Communications

This week, the Communications Department advanced a variety of initiatives that highlight our district’s scholars, staff, and programs, while also supporting internal communications and strategic planning.

Social Media & Campaigns

• Launched the Hispanic Heritage Month Photo Series, featuring scholars across the district paying homage to notable figures in Hispanic culture. The series has been well-received and has performed strongly on social media.
  
  

• Created and shared content highlighting cell phone expectations for scholars, Hispanic Heritage Month voices and perspectives, and coverage of the DeSoto High School Dance Team’s performance at the Dallas Cowboys game, among other key topics.

Internal Communications

• Developed and distributed messaging inviting staff to participate in Leadership Navex Training and to engage in the launch of the Staff Wellness Initiative.

• Organized and communicated details regarding the retirement celebration for retiring Director of Human Resources Larry Davis.

• Issued reminders for staff to complete required compliance training.

Story Development & Coverage

• Completed stories for the October 9 Hispanic Heritage Month event, a written recap of the Best in Southwest Literacy Event, and reminders for the upcoming Fall Break.

• Published stories on the launch of the All Pro Dad initiative, a tribute to principals for National Principals Month, and prepared a written and video tribute for World Teachers Day.
  
  

• Launched the first installment of a month-long series honoring district principals and developed content for Red Ribbon Week, National Fire Prevention Week, and October Board Meeting dates.

Organizational Development

• The Chief Communications Officer (CCO) completed Beginning-of-Year (BOY) Goals and aligned departmental efforts with the district’s Strategic Goals.

Staffing & Capacity Building

• Conducted interviews with five external and one internal candidate for department openings; although all candidates showed potential, none surpassed the performance and promise of existing team members.
  
  

• Based on this assessment, the CCO proposed an internal promotion plan to recognize and reward existing talent while building departmental capacity. This plan includes:
  
  

  • Promoting the current Executive Administrative Assistant to Communications Specialist.
    
    

  • Advancing the current Communications Specialist to Communications Coordinator.
    
    

  • Transitioning the District Receptionist to the Executive Administrative Assistant role.
    
    

  • Backfilling the Receptionist position to maintain operational support.

This approach reflects a continued investment in the growth and development of internal team members, ensuring stability, strengthening departmental capacity, and furthering the Communications Department’s mission to effectively serve the district and its stakeholders.

Technology 

In support of DeSoto ISD’s strategic vision for digital transformation, we are launching a district-wide technology modernization plan focused on:

• Enhancing learning experiences

• Strengthening campus safety

• Increasing operational efficiency

This initiative spans multiple focus areas and reflects our unwavering commitment to purpose-driven education and innovation.

1. Microsoft Intune Rollout

To reinforce cybersecurity and streamline device management, Microsoft Intune has been deployed across all district-owned devices. This cloud-based platform enables:

• Remote administration and policy enforcement

• Efficient app deployment and updates

• End-to-end device lifecycle management

2. Student Laptop Upgrades

With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, we are proactively upgrading student laptops to Windows 11-compatible models. These new devices offer:

• Improved performance and security

• Access to modern learning tools

• Priority rollout for high school students and campuses with aging hardware

3. Campus Digital Signage

To improve communication across campuses, digital signage is being installed in:

• Front offices

• Cafeterias

• Libraries

• Athletic facilities

These displays will deliver real-time updates, emergency alerts, event schedules, and student recognition—centrally managed for consistency and impact.

4. Student Device Distribution

Every student will receive a district-issued laptop for academic use. Distribution events are coordinated with campus leadership and include:

• Orientation and digital citizenship training

• On-site tech support

• Devices tagged, enrolled in Intune, and preloaded with essential educational tools

5. Security Camera Enhancements

To elevate campus safety, we are upgrading to high-definition IP cameras equipped with:

• Night vision and motion detection

• Integration with law enforcement systems

• Exploration of AI features such as facial recognition, license plate readers, and behavioral analytics

6. Document Management System Review

We are evaluating enterprise-grade document management systems to centralize records and improve collaboration. Key criteria include:

• FERPA and HIPAA compliance

• Accessibility for staff, students, and administrators

• Automation for approvals, archiving, and retention policies

Stakeholder feedback is being gathered through pilot programs and vendor demonstrations, with implementation planned following final selection.

7. Bond-Funded Technology Projects

Pending bond approval, DeSoto ISD is preparing to implement strategic upgrades through vendor partnerships:

• Chromebook/Laptop Deployment

• Audio-Visual Systems for stadiums, auditoriums, gyms, and boardroom

• Bells and Paging Systems for daily and emergency communication

• Baseball Field Technology including sound systems and live-streaming infrastructure

• Emergency Notification Systems across intercoms, signage, mobile apps, and classroom devices

• Smart Lockdown Systems with automated door locking and AI threat detection

• Board Room AV and security upgrades

• Expanded security camera coverage with advanced features

8. Password Management Improvements

To enhance digital security and user autonomy:

• Students can now reset their own passwords

• A new feature is in development allowing teachers to reset passwords for students in their classes—streamlining classroom tech support

9. Help Desk Metrics

Our Help Desk continues to deliver responsive support for the district’s growing technology infrastructure:

• Open tickets: 118

• Submitted in September: 90

• Closed in September: 2159 (includes tickets from previous months) 

• Average resolution time: 29.9 minutes

These metrics reflect our commitment to timely service and continuous improvement.

10. Phone System Evaluation

To improve communication across campuses and departments, DeSoto ISD is actively evaluating modern phone system solutions. This assessment focuses on:

• Unified communication features such as voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, and mobile integration

• Enhanced security and reliability (panic buttons)

• Simplified management and scalability for future growth

• Integration with emergency notification systems and paging infrastructure

Pilot programs and vendor demonstrations have concluded and a recommendation will be submitted to meet the district’s operational needs and supports both instructional and administrative functions.

Our Commitment

Every initiative is rooted in our mission to prepare students for success in a connected, secure, and rapidly evolving world. Through infrastructure upgrades, cloud-based tools, and expanded access to digital learning, DeSoto ISD is:

• Empowering students to lead with confidence

• Equipping staff with efficient tools

• Creating safe, innovative learning environments

These efforts embody our integrity, determination, and pursuit of excellence.

Maintenance & Operations

There were a total of 105 work orders completed and there are still 38 work orders in progress in the system.

Maintenance

• • • LG systems at Early College - Ongoing

    • Still waiting on parts

    • Compressor is out

    • Still painting at KJ

    • On hold due to students being back in classrooms

    • Eagle Suite

    • Still working on floors

    • Still replacing burned out canopy lights at KJ

    • Waiting on lift rental

    • Still waiting on HoltCat for generator at McCowan to get them back up and running

    • Still cleaning trash out on Visitor's side of Ben Dial Stadium

    • Installing Cat 5 for security cameras and TV's at McCowan & AG Barn

    • Windows at Admin ZenDen are done, waiting on them to be painted

    • Gym 2 & 3 - working on wet roofs

    • Issue was HVAC related and was fixed

    • Started working on fixing AG Barn fence on 9/30

    • Working on awning for cooling tubs at Ben Dial

    • Painting West MS Gym & locker room

    • Digging up concrete and fixing sewer lines at High School Gym 1

Grounds

• Mowing and weed eating around district

Safety Repor

• McCowan-Fire drill 

• West MS- Fire drill 

This past week was a momentous one for our department, filled with meaningful collaboration, strategic planning, and a strong focus on employee well-being.

Professional Learning Takes Off
Following Monday’s board meeting, we launched our first Assistant Principal (AP) meeting of the school year. The committee’s mission is clear: to ensure that every individual in the AP seat is well-prepared and confident in their role. Feedback from our APs was overwhelmingly positive, and we’re thrilled about the professional learning journey ahead!

Exploring the Future of AI
On Tuesday, I had the privilege of attending the AI Summit alongside Dr. Rodgers, Chief McCloud, and Mr. White. We engaged with leading experts in the field and explored critical topics such as AI literacy, regulation, policy, and governance. We also heard pitches from companies eager to collaborate with districts across the region—an exciting step toward innovation in education.

Strategic Planning
Wednesday was dedicated to refining our strategic priorities. T.

An Employee's Perspective
Dr. Rodgers and Mr. Manning kicked off our Wellness Wednesdays  in DeSoto ISD with Mr. Nutall from Citi Group.  The first session was both informative and inspiring. I am extremely proud to work in a district that cares so much for employee wellness.

Operational ReadinessThursday focused on preparing for the weeks ahead. I collaborated with the R.E.D. team to establish a timeline that allows more time for progress monitoring data review. Please find this data included in the board update

Board Preparation & System Revamp
Yulonda and I worked closely with cabinet members to prepare board documents, and we’re excited to share that we’ve revamped our system to better support departmental success. We’re optimistic that this new approach will yield stronger outcomes.

Celebrating Our Eagles
This week, we received 110 written shout-outs from employees across the district, and 10 leaders shared numerous heartfelt recognitions of their teams during huddles. It was refreshing to hear the pride and appreciation expressed for our incredible staff. One particularly touching moment came when I met the new counselor from FME, who recently joined us from California. She shared that she attends the huddles daily and truly loves being part of DeSoto ISD.

While the week was undeniably busy, it was also deeply rewarding. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making it such a powerful start to the season.