The School District of DeSoto County
We are #OneDesoto, all for kids
🏃♀️🐾 Bulldog Strong, DHS XC! 🐾🏃♀️
Congratulations to Coach Chidsey, Coach Gonzalez, and the DHS Cross Country Team on an outstanding performance at the 11th Annual Hardee Wildcat Cross Country Invitational! The DHS Boys Team raced to a 2nd Place finish, while the DHS Girls Team earned an impressive 4th Place overall.
🌟 Top Finishers
Girls: Melany Gamez (23:08) | Abbygale Wilson (24:17) | Yulisa Contreras (25:49)
Boys: JeZyan Shine (18:06) | JeTryin Shine(18:13) | Trace Barrera (18:18)
We are so proud of our Bulldogs for their dedication, teamwork, and determination. Keep up the great work!💙
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Congratulations to Coach Chidsey, Coach Gonzalez, and the DHS Cross Country Team on an outstanding performance at the 11th Annual Hardee Wildcat Cross Country Invitational! The DHS Boys Team raced to a 2nd Place finish, while the DHS Girls Team earned an impressive 4th Place overall.
🌟 Top Finishers
Girls: Melany Gamez (23:08) | Abbygale Wilson (24:17) | Yulisa Contreras (25:49)
Boys: JeZyan Shine (18:06) | JeTryin Shine(18:13) | Trace Barrera (18:18)
We are so proud of our Bulldogs for their dedication, teamwork, and determination. Keep up the great work!💙
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🛠️ Facilities Employee of the Quarter🛠️
The Facilities Department is proud to announce and recognize Lester Hornbake as Employee of the Quarter for his dedication, commitment, hard work, and the positive impact he has on our team. His determination and drive to succeed is commendable and is an inspiration to us all, as a team. Thank you, Lester, for your contributions, and we look forward to your continued success. Congratulations Lester!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
💙🐴 Happy National Principals Month, Mrs. Tackett! 🐴💙
Today, we're proud to recognize Mrs. Brandy Tackett, Principal of Nocatee Elementary School!
Mrs. Tackett leads with compassion, dedication, and a heart for students. Her favorite part of being a principal says it all: "Getting to hug my students every day!" ❤️ That daily connection and care help make Nocatee Elementary a place where students feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to learn.
Thank you, Mrs. Tackett, for your leadership, your commitment to excellence, and the positive difference you make in the lives of our students, staff, and families every day.
#OneDeSoto #AllForKids #NationalPrincipalsMonth #NocateeElementary #MustangStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Today, we're proud to recognize Mrs. Brandy Tackett, Principal of Nocatee Elementary School!
Mrs. Tackett leads with compassion, dedication, and a heart for students. Her favorite part of being a principal says it all: "Getting to hug my students every day!" ❤️ That daily connection and care help make Nocatee Elementary a place where students feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to learn.
Thank you, Mrs. Tackett, for your leadership, your commitment to excellence, and the positive difference you make in the lives of our students, staff, and families every day.
#OneDeSoto #AllForKids #NationalPrincipalsMonth #NocateeElementary #MustangStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🔬🍂 Fall Into Science! 🍂🔬
Learning comes to life through hands-on discovery! Our young scientists at West Elementary are exploring the fascinating world of decomposition with Pumpkin Jack. By observing a real jack-o'-lantern over time, students are learning about fungi, the pumpkin life cycle, and how nature recycles. Experiments like these spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and show our Bulldogs that science is all around us.
Little Scientists... Big Discoveries! 🧡
#OneDeSoto #FallIntoScience #WestElementary #HandsOnLearning #STEM #ScienceIsFun #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Learning comes to life through hands-on discovery! Our young scientists at West Elementary are exploring the fascinating world of decomposition with Pumpkin Jack. By observing a real jack-o'-lantern over time, students are learning about fungi, the pumpkin life cycle, and how nature recycles. Experiments like these spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and show our Bulldogs that science is all around us.
Little Scientists... Big Discoveries! 🧡
#OneDeSoto #FallIntoScience #WestElementary #HandsOnLearning #STEM #ScienceIsFun #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
💅🌸Bloom Beauty's Pretty Little Pamper Party 🌸💅
Students in the DeSoto High School Cosmetology CTE Program recently showcased their skills by hosting their first-ever public event at Bloom Beauty Collective, the student-operated salon on campus. Planned and organized by the students, the Pretty Little Pamper Party welcomed 35 children for a fun day of mini spa services while providing valuable hands-on experience in customer service, professionalism, and the beauty industry.
We're proud of our future cosmetology professionals for using their talents to serve our community! 💕✨
#OneDeSoto #DeSotoHigh #BloomBeautyCollective #CTE #Cosmetology #FutureStylists #CareerReady
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Students in the DeSoto High School Cosmetology CTE Program recently showcased their skills by hosting their first-ever public event at Bloom Beauty Collective, the student-operated salon on campus. Planned and organized by the students, the Pretty Little Pamper Party welcomed 35 children for a fun day of mini spa services while providing valuable hands-on experience in customer service, professionalism, and the beauty industry.
We're proud of our future cosmetology professionals for using their talents to serve our community! 💕✨
#OneDeSoto #DeSotoHigh #BloomBeautyCollective #CTE #Cosmetology #FutureStylists #CareerReady
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🍂 FALL BREAK REMINDER 🍂
Friendly reminder: Fall Break is coming up! There is no school October 19–23, 2026! Students and staff return Monday, October 26, 2026. Take this time to rest with family, enjoy the season, read a good book, and recharge for what’s ahead! Have a safe and wonderful break, Bulldogs!
#OneDeSoto #FallBreak #BulldogPride #SameBulldogsBrighterTomorrows
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Friendly reminder: Fall Break is coming up! There is no school October 19–23, 2026! Students and staff return Monday, October 26, 2026. Take this time to rest with family, enjoy the season, read a good book, and recharge for what’s ahead! Have a safe and wonderful break, Bulldogs!
#OneDeSoto #FallBreak #BulldogPride #SameBulldogsBrighterTomorrows
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🍂🐾 What an incredible week in #OneDeSoto! 🐾🍂
As we wrap up the first quarter, our Bulldogs have been learning, growing, exploring, and supporting one another every step of the way. From classrooms to campuses, every accomplishment is a reminder that great things are happening in DeSoto Schools.
As we head into Fall Break, we hope our students, families, and staff enjoy a well-deserved time to rest, recharge, and make memories together. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for an exciting second quarter!
Have a safe and wonderful Fall Break, Bulldogs! 💙
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
As we wrap up the first quarter, our Bulldogs have been learning, growing, exploring, and supporting one another every step of the way. From classrooms to campuses, every accomplishment is a reminder that great things are happening in DeSoto Schools.
As we head into Fall Break, we hope our students, families, and staff enjoy a well-deserved time to rest, recharge, and make memories together. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for an exciting second quarter!
Have a safe and wonderful Fall Break, Bulldogs! 💙
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🍂 Fall Into Resources! 🍂
The School District of DeSoto County Department of Exceptional Student Education invites families of students with disabilities to our "Fall Into Resources" event! Come connect with our community, discover valuable services, and help grow your family's resource tree! What you’ll explore: community resource providers, family support services & parent connections, educational resources & programs for student success, health & wellness information. Every resource is another branch of support for our students and families. Together, we are building a more inclusive and supportive community! 💙
🗓 Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍Family Service Center Annex (310 W. Whidden Street, Arcadia, FL 34266)
#DeSotoCounty #SpecialEducation #ESE #CommunityResources #FamilySupport #ArcadiaFL #FallIntoResources We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
The School District of DeSoto County Department of Exceptional Student Education invites families of students with disabilities to our "Fall Into Resources" event! Come connect with our community, discover valuable services, and help grow your family's resource tree! What you’ll explore: community resource providers, family support services & parent connections, educational resources & programs for student success, health & wellness information. Every resource is another branch of support for our students and families. Together, we are building a more inclusive and supportive community! 💙
🗓 Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍Family Service Center Annex (310 W. Whidden Street, Arcadia, FL 34266)
#DeSotoCounty #SpecialEducation #ESE #CommunityResources #FamilySupport #ArcadiaFL #FallIntoResources We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🚲 Helmet Up & Ride Smart! 🚲
Every ride begins with one simple step, wear your helmet! Whether you're riding to school, around your neighborhood, or with friends, making safe choices helps protect you every time you get on your bike. Be visible and predictable.
Safe riders start with safe habits! Let's work together to keep every Bulldog safe on the road.
Safety Tips to Remember:
🪖 Wear a properly fitted helmet.
🚴 Follow traffic signs and signals.
👀 Stay alert and watch for cars, pedestrians, and other riders.
#OneDeSoto #HelmetUpRideSmart #BikeSafety #SafeRiders #SafetyFirst #AllForKids #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
💙🐾 Reminder for #OneDeSoto Families! 🐾💙
The end of the 1st nine weeks is tomorrow, Friday, October 16th, and students will be dismissed early for a Student Early Release | Records Day. Our teachers will be using the afternoon to finalize grades and prepare report cards as we wrap up the first grading period. Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our Bulldogs. Let's finish the first nine weeks strong!
📅 Friday, October 16
⏰ Early Release for Students
📝 Records Day
#OneDeSoto #AllForKids #BulldogStrong #EndOfFirstNineWeeks #EarlyRelease #EveryDayCounts
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
💙 Happy National Principals Month, Mrs. Irby! 🍎📚
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Mrs. Irby, Principal of Memorial Elementary School! She loves the opportunity to work alongside amazing students, teachers, and families each day. One of her greatest joys is watching students learn, grow, and discover just how much they can accomplish! Thank you, Mrs. Irby, for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to helping our students thrive!🌟
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
#NationalPrincipalsMonth #MemorialElementary #MES #OneDeSoto #AllForKids
📚💙Attention Parents & Families! 📚💙
Navigating your child’s educational journey can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone! Join FDLRS Heartland for part two of our parent training series: "ESE 101 for Parents – The Next Step: Your Child’s Road to Success." This free parent webinar provides information, resources, and support for families of students with disabilities. We'll dive into the IEP process and answer key questions:
✅ What is an Individual Education Plan (IEP)?
✅ What comes after an IEP?
🗓 Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
⏰ Times: Choose either 11:00 AM OR 4:30 PM
💻 Register Here: https://bit.ly/ESEWebinarPart2-Oct2026 (or scan the QR code on the flyer!)
For questions or more information, reach out to Toia Addison at toia.addison@fdlrsheartland.org. Feel free to share this post with anyone who might benefit! 📲✨
#FDLRS #FDLRSHeartland #ESE #SpecialEducation #IEP #ParentSupport #StudentSuccess
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Navigating your child’s educational journey can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone! Join FDLRS Heartland for part two of our parent training series: "ESE 101 for Parents – The Next Step: Your Child’s Road to Success." This free parent webinar provides information, resources, and support for families of students with disabilities. We'll dive into the IEP process and answer key questions:
✅ What is an Individual Education Plan (IEP)?
✅ What comes after an IEP?
🗓 Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
⏰ Times: Choose either 11:00 AM OR 4:30 PM
💻 Register Here: https://bit.ly/ESEWebinarPart2-Oct2026 (or scan the QR code on the flyer!)
For questions or more information, reach out to Toia Addison at toia.addison@fdlrsheartland.org. Feel free to share this post with anyone who might benefit! 📲✨
#FDLRS #FDLRSHeartland #ESE #SpecialEducation #IEP #ParentSupport #StudentSuccess
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🏈👑 Friday Night Lights & Homecoming Memories! 💙
Last week, our DHS Bulldogs took the field under the lights for an exciting Homecoming game while we celebrated the outstanding students selected to represent the 2026 Homecoming Court. Congratulations to our Homecoming Court and thank you to everyone who came out to support our Bulldogs and celebrate this special tradition. From the crowning ceremony to the excitement on the field and in the stands, it was a night to remember!
📸 Enjoy a few highlights from the Homecoming game and the presentation of the Homecoming Court.
#OneDeSoto #BulldogStrong #GoDogs #DHSHomecoming #FridayNightLights #HomecomingCourt
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Last week, our DHS Bulldogs took the field under the lights for an exciting Homecoming game while we celebrated the outstanding students selected to represent the 2026 Homecoming Court. Congratulations to our Homecoming Court and thank you to everyone who came out to support our Bulldogs and celebrate this special tradition. From the crowning ceremony to the excitement on the field and in the stands, it was a night to remember!
📸 Enjoy a few highlights from the Homecoming game and the presentation of the Homecoming Court.
#OneDeSoto #BulldogStrong #GoDogs #DHSHomecoming #FridayNightLights #HomecomingCourt
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🍁 Celebrate Fall with the DeSoto County Library! 🍁
Looking for a fun, festive event for the whole family? Join the Library at the Annual Fall Ball! Admission is FREE, and everyone in the community is welcome to join in on the festivities. Here is what you can look forward to: activities & crafts: hands-on creative fun for kids and adults alike, connect with local organizations and neighbors, and fun for everyone: seasonal games, entertainment, and autumn cheer! Gather your friends and family and help us celebrate the spirit of fall. We can’t wait to see you there!
📅 Date: Saturday, October 17th | ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: DeSoto County Library, 125 N Hillsborough Ave
#DeSotoCountyLibrary #FallBall #CommunityEvents #FamilyFun #FallFestivities #FreeEvents
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Looking for a fun, festive event for the whole family? Join the Library at the Annual Fall Ball! Admission is FREE, and everyone in the community is welcome to join in on the festivities. Here is what you can look forward to: activities & crafts: hands-on creative fun for kids and adults alike, connect with local organizations and neighbors, and fun for everyone: seasonal games, entertainment, and autumn cheer! Gather your friends and family and help us celebrate the spirit of fall. We can’t wait to see you there!
📅 Date: Saturday, October 17th | ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: DeSoto County Library, 125 N Hillsborough Ave
#DeSotoCountyLibrary #FallBall #CommunityEvents #FamilyFun #FallFestivities #FreeEvents
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🐾🎉 2026 DHS Homecoming Pep Rally! 💙
Bulldog Pride was on full display at last week's DHS Homecoming Pep Rally! Students, staff, cheerleaders, band members, and athletes came together to celebrate Homecoming Week with incredible energy, school spirit, and Bulldog pride. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year's pep rally such a fun and memorable event. It's moments like these that remind us what it means to be #OneDeSoto!
📸 Take a look back at some of our favorite moments from the celebration!
#OneDeSoto #BulldogStrong #GoDogs #DHSHomecoming #SchoolSpirit
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🐾🎉 Congratulations to Our Educators! 🎉🐾
We are proud to announce our 2026-27 nominees for Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, and School-Related Employee of the Year. These outstanding educators and staff members have been selected by their schools and departments to represent the very best of #OneDeSoto. Each nominee is now advancing to be considered for the district-wide award in their respective category.
Thier dedication, passion, and commitment to our students make a lasting difference every single day. We are grateful for the incredible work they do to support our schools, strengthen our district, and inspire the next generation.
Congratulations to all of our nominees! We look forward to celebrating each of you as the district-wide selection process continues.
#TeacherOfTheYear #RookieTeacherOfTheYear #SchoolRelatedEmployeeOfTheYear #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
We are proud to announce our 2026-27 nominees for Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, and School-Related Employee of the Year. These outstanding educators and staff members have been selected by their schools and departments to represent the very best of #OneDeSoto. Each nominee is now advancing to be considered for the district-wide award in their respective category.
Thier dedication, passion, and commitment to our students make a lasting difference every single day. We are grateful for the incredible work they do to support our schools, strengthen our district, and inspire the next generation.
Congratulations to all of our nominees! We look forward to celebrating each of you as the district-wide selection process continues.
#TeacherOfTheYear #RookieTeacherOfTheYear #SchoolRelatedEmployeeOfTheYear #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
💙 Happy National Principals Month, Ms. Black! 🤠📚
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Ms. Black, Principal of West Elementary School! Ms. Black’s passion for students, staff, families, and the entire WES community is evident in the relationships she builds and her commitment to helping every Cowboy succeed. Her goal is simple but powerful: develop leaders, prepare students for the future, and make WES the greatest school it can be! Thank you, Ms. Black, for leading with heart and reminding us why WEST IS BEST! We appreciate all you do for our students, families, and community!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
#NationalPrincipalsMonth #WestIsBest #WESCowboys #OneDeSoto #AllForKids
🐾💙 This Week in Bulldog Sports! 🩷🐾
It's another exciting week for our Bulldog student-athletes! Join us in cheering on our teams as they compete with pride, determination, and Bulldog spirit. As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're adding a little extra pink to our Bulldog Blue in honor of the fighters, survivors, and families impacted by breast cancer. Together, we play with purpose and support a cause that touches so many lives.
📅 Check out this week's schedule and come out to support our Bulldogs!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
It's another exciting week for our Bulldog student-athletes! Join us in cheering on our teams as they compete with pride, determination, and Bulldog spirit. As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're adding a little extra pink to our Bulldog Blue in honor of the fighters, survivors, and families impacted by breast cancer. Together, we play with purpose and support a cause that touches so many lives.
📅 Check out this week's schedule and come out to support our Bulldogs!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🐾💗 Monday Motivation🐾💗
"The future is sitting in our classrooms today."
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
"The future is sitting in our classrooms today."
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
🩷🐾🩵 This Week at #OneDeSoto 🩵🐾🩷
Another great week is on the books! Our classrooms are filled with learning, our athletes are competing with Bulldog pride, and our students continue to inspire us with their kindness, determination, and school spirit. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're proud to see our Bulldogs wearing pink in support of survivors, fighters, and families impacted by breast cancer. Together, we are building a community that leads with compassion and hope.
Whether it's in the classroom, on the field, or throughout our community, every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference. Here's to another week of celebrating our students, supporting one another, and showcasing all the great things happening in #OneDeSoto!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
Another great week is on the books! Our classrooms are filled with learning, our athletes are competing with Bulldog pride, and our students continue to inspire us with their kindness, determination, and school spirit. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're proud to see our Bulldogs wearing pink in support of survivors, fighters, and families impacted by breast cancer. Together, we are building a community that leads with compassion and hope.
Whether it's in the classroom, on the field, or throughout our community, every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference. Here's to another week of celebrating our students, supporting one another, and showcasing all the great things happening in #OneDeSoto!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
