DeSoto ISD Superintendent Dr. Usamah Rodgers is a long-serving educator. Rodgers’ ascension through the educational ranks began with her work as a teacher before becoming dean of instruction, assistant principal, and campus principal. Rodgers later transitioned to executive leadership roles as an executive director and, most recently, as the Deputy Chief of Strategic Initiatives in Dallas ISD, the 14th largest school system in the United States serving more than 150,000 students.
Rodgers holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Missouri State University and a master’s and Doctor of Education in educational leadership and administration from the University of Texas at Austin.
Rodgers’ impact on educational leadership is evidenced by several professional awards and achievements including but not limited to:
- 2021 Future School Leaders Network (FSLN) Legacy Leadership Award
- 2020 Edvocate Best K-12 Leader Award
- 2017 Dallas NAACP Juanita Craft Education Award
- 2017 Ken Manous Alpha Honors
- 2014 Excellence in Education Award – Negro Business and Professional Women’s Garland Club
- The University of Texas at Austin – Cooperative Superintendency Fellow
- 2008-2009 – Cedar Hill ISD – Principal of the Year
- PTA Life Membership Award
- 2009 – Raise Your Hand Texas
- 2009 – Harvard Principals Institute – Participant
About DeSoto Independent School District
DeSoto ISD is a public independent school district serving more than 7,400 students and 1,000 employees. The district comprises 10 campuses serving students from early childhood through graduation. DeSoto ISD’s mission is to ensure students, without exception, learn and grow at their highest level. The District’s 2021 Be The Future Strategic Plan focuses on equity, access, and excellence in an effort to provide a holistic and well-rounded educational experience to students and families in DeSoto, Glenn Heights, and Ovilla.
For more information about DeSoto ISD, visit www.desotoisd.org.