DeSoto ISD Superintendent Dr. Usamah Rodgers Receives TMEA Distinguished Administrator Award at Cadence of Celebration
DeSoto Independent School District is proud to announce that Dr. Usamah Rodgers, Superintendent of Schools, was honored with the 2024-2025 Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Distinguished Administrator Award at the district’s Cadence of Celebration event on May 16, 2025. This prestigious award is presented to school administrators who have made a significant impact in preserving and advancing quality music education programs within their districts.
Rodgers was nominated for this award in August 2024 in recognition of her unwavering commitment to promoting and enhancing music education across DeSoto ISD through the promotion and spearheading of the Triple-A Experience, the district’s well-rounded and holistic approach to education rooted in Academics, Arts and Athletics. Under her leadership, the district has fostered a robust K-12 fine arts program that integrates dance, music, theatre and other forms of artistic expression as an essential part of the educational experience for students.
The TMEA Distinguished Administrator Award acknowledges Dr. Rodgers for her role in supporting music education, advocating for its continued growth, and ensuring that students have access to a well-rounded, high-quality education. Music educators throughout the district have praised her leadership and vision for the arts, as well as her support for the educators who inspire students to explore their creativity through music.
“I am truly honored to receive the TMEA Distinguished Administrator Award,” said Dr. Rodgers regarding the commendation for which she received following a nomination from Twynette Anderson, Middle School Fine Arts Coordinator, who serves as the Band Director at Curtistene S. McCowan Middle School. “This recognition reflects the collective work of our district’s educators, students, and families in making fine arts an integral part of the DeSoto ISD experience. I am proud to work alongside such passionate individuals who are dedicated to shaping the lives of our students through the arts.”
Dr. Rodgers’ award was presented during the Cadence of Celebration, DeSoto ISD’s annual employee recognition event, themed “Gilded Age of Greatness: An Ode to Employee Excellence in DeSoto ISD.” This event honored the hard work and achievements of DeSoto ISD employees and celebrated their successes and milestones.
Stephanie McCloud, Chief Academic Officer for DeSoto ISD, shared, “Dr. Rodgers' commitment to fine arts education has had a profound impact on our district. She has consistently supported our music educators and students, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of our curriculum. Her leadership is truly inspiring, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his dedication to excellence in DeSoto ISD.”
For more information, visit www.desotoisd.org.