In recognition of the Wednesday, December 3, 2025, International
Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually, DeSoto Independent
School District proudly celebrates the strength, resilience, and contributions
of scholars with disabilities, their families and the staff members who serve
and support them. In light of this observance, the district reaffirms its
commitment to providing an inclusive, supportive, and empowering educational
environment for every Eagle scholar.
“International Disabilities Day is
an important reminder of the collective responsibility we hold in ensuring that
all students—regardless of ability—have access to empowering, high-quality
educational experiences,” said Stephanie Fuller, Executive Director of
Special Populations. “In DeSoto ISD, we are committed to championing
inclusion, celebrating our students’ strengths, and working alongside families
to meet each scholar’s unique needs.”
DeSoto ISD honors this day as an opportunity to spotlight
the importance of equitable access, meaningful support, and collaborative
partnerships between families, educators, and service providers to ensure that
every student is equipped to reach his or her full potential.
Commitment to High-Quality Special Education and Support
Services
DeSoto ISD offers a comprehensive suite of services to
support scholars receiving Special Education and related services, including:
- Individualized
Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each student’s unique learning
needs;
- Specialized
academic instruction across settings;
- Speech,
occupational, physical, and behavioral therapy services as
appropriate;
- Assistive
technology supports;
- Behavior
and social-emotional supports, including counseling and behavioral
intervention plans;
- Transition
services to support postsecondary readiness;
- Family
support and engagement opportunities, including ARD meetings,
informational sessions, and educator collaboration;
- …and
more.
These services reflect the district’s belief that
exceptional learners deserve exceptional support—academically, socially, and
emotionally.
“Our scholars with disabilities are
vital members of our learning community,” said Stephanie McCloud, DeSoto ISD
Chief Academic Officer. “DeSoto ISD continues to expand and refine the
services, supports, and instructional practices that help each student grow
academically and socially. We are proud of our educators and service providers
who work daily to ensure that our scholars excel.”
A Districtwide Commitment to All Learners
As the district reflects on International Day of Persons
with Disabilities, DeSoto ISD remains steadfast in its mission to support
equitable access to education, strengthen inclusive practices, and ensure that
every Eagle scholar receives the respect, quality instruction, and
comprehensive services needed to thrive.
“In DeSoto ISD, we believe every
Eagle deserves an education that honors who they are and who they are becoming.
Our commitment is unwavering: we will continue to invest in the people,
systems, and supports necessary to ensure that all scholars—especially those
requiring specialized services—have access to the opportunities and resources
they need to realize their full potential,” said Dr. Usamah Rodgers, DeSoto
ISD Superintendent of Schools..
For more information about Special Education and Special
Populations services in DeSoto ISD, families are encouraged to visit the
district website or contact the Special Populations Department directly.