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District reports literacy gains and expands internship partnerships; students describe work experiences
Summary
DeSoto Parish officials reported K–3 literacy growth on the DIBELS screener and highlighted an expanding internship program (43 students) including student testimonials from Braden Phillips and Darian Wales about on-the-job learning.
District staff reported measurable growth in early-grade literacy and described an expanding student internship program at the DeSoto Parish School Board meeting on May 7, 2026.
Willis Smith presented district DIBELS literacy screener results, reporting that K–3 proficiency rose roughly 10 percentage points to about 80% districtwide. Smith highlighted substantial site-level gains, noting North DeSoto Lower Elementary grew 28 percentage points to approximately 91% proficiency; kindergarten proficiency districtwide was reported at about 90%.
The board then heard from Career Compass representatives. Laura Wego, Northwest Louisiana Regional Coordinator for Career Compass, outlined services the organization provides to grades 6–12, including assistance with college applications, FAFSA completion, scholarship searches, career exploration, and workforce pathways. Wego said Career Compass averaged over two visits per senior this year and works on campuses regularly to support counselors and students.
District staff reviewed the internship program, which began in 2021 with two students and two business partners and has since expanded to 43 students and 11 business partners, with 15 summer interns planned. Two student interns spoke about their experiences: Braden Phillips, who said he has worked at Liberty Energy since November as a maintenance expediter and described ordering parts and assisting mechanics; and a second student introduced as Darian (earlier identified as Darian Wales), who said his time in district maintenance and transportation clarified a career interest in plumbing and HVAC.
Board members praised the students and encouraged community employers to continue offering placements. Staff noted supports provided to employers and students — including purchasing tools and offering salary assistance to host companies — to lower barriers to participation.
Superintendent Corley closed with reminders about graduation week and ongoing capital projects, and the board adjourned.
