The DeSoto Difference With The Buford Family

The DeSoto Difference: Early College & Football: More than An Athlete
Posted on 07/08/2021
This is the image for the news article titled The DeSoto Difference: Early College & Football: More than An Athlete

Originally from the Chicago area, Marquis & Roslind Buford relocated to the Best Southwest area and made DeSoto their new home. Initially, the Bufords enrolled their children at Cedar Hill’s Trinity Christian High School but began to think of the next steps for their younger son, Mario, and which school district had the best offer for him academically and athletically.  

When the Buford’s began to consider DeSoto ISD, they networked with citizens around the community to gauge their experiences in the district.

 “We started to build some great relationships,” said Marquis Buford.  “Everyone has been very forthcoming with information about their experiences and how it benefited their children,” he added. 

Equally thrilled about what she heard regarding DeSoto ISD, Roslind Buford was very pleased with the program offerings and the level of community involvement in district schools. 

“We like to get involved in our community wherever we go,” said Mrs. Buford.  “Hearing about the different opportunities for parents and the students to get involved was something that was really attractive." 

Programs such as the Early College High School, where students can graduate with an Associate’s degree; and DeSoto’s high-performing and highly-competitive athletics program were just two of many factors leading this family to the district. 

“Knowing that DeSoto ISD is preparing [Mario] for the next level, which is college,” said Mr. Buford. “It’s great to know that he is on the right path as far as his future.” 

Mario, an incoming sophomore at DeSoto High and a member of the DeSoto Eagles football team attributes his success on and off the field to the academic culture set by the district. 

“I like the environment, how they make me feel comfortable, how they teach me to advocate for myself. The teachers help me feel comfortable to be myself in their classrooms,” said Mario referencing one of his favorite teachers--DHS’ Ms. Cora Garner. “I’m able to speak to her and she makes learning feel very easy and fun.” 

Mr.  Buford believes the same nurturing received in the classroom is also seen on the field. 

“The exact same thing we received from an academic standpoint, we received from an athletic standpoint,” said Mr. Buford. “Coach Mathis is very forthcoming. He explains and breaks everything down. There are no secrets.” 

Since enrolling in DeSoto ISD schools, Mario says he has seen tremendous self-growth and is excited for what the future holds. In the future, Mario wants to attend a Division 1 school to major in mechanical engineering and pursue his passion for football, professionally.  

The mission of DeSoto ISD is to ensure students, without exception, learn and grow at their highest levels. Join the Buford family in experiencing the DeSoto ISD Difference and give your child the opportunity to excel at his or her highest level. 

 

Enrollment for the 2021-22 school year is now open. 

Visit www.DeSotoISD.org/Enrollment for more information.