DeSoto Parish Schools is proud to announce the appointment of two exceptional educators to leadership positions within the Department of Student Learning. Ms. Jasmine Taylor has been named the new Student Learning Coordinator for Math, and Mr. Brandon Fontenot has been appointed as the Student Learning Coordinator for Science and Social Studies.
Jasmine Taylor enters her 10th year in education, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. After beginning her career in Caddo Parish, Ms. Taylor joined the DeSoto Parish Schools family in October 2018. She has since served in various capacities at Mansfield Middle School, including as a 7th and 8th grade Math teacher, Algebra 1 instructor, Math Mentor Teacher, Head Girls Basketball and Volleyball coach, and most recently, the Master Teacher of Math and Science. Ms. Taylor’s dedication and excellence have earned her significant recognition, including being named the 2022 Middle School Teacher of the Year and the 2023 Louisiana Exemplary Educator.
In her new role as Math Coordinator, Ms. Taylor will focus on advancing student Math proficiency across all DeSoto Parish Schools. Reflecting on her appointment, Ms. Taylor stated, "I am following the steps God has ordered. I have so much to give to students and teachers, so now the thought of my impact spreading district-wide excites me. Math has always been my top subject, and I want to incite that passion for Math content everywhere. I'm looking forward to building positive relationships across our campuses and hope to infect everyone with my growth mindset! It is only up from here!"
Brandon Fontenot began his educational career at Logansport High School in 2014 and has since amassed a decade of experience in high school science education, exclusively within DeSoto Parish Schools. Mr. Fontenot joined the faculty at North DeSoto High School in 2017, where he has continued to cultivate a passion for science education.
In his new position as Student Learning Coordinator for Science and Social Studies, Mr. Fontenot will support K-12 curricula across the district. Speaking on his new role, he shared, "Science and social studies constitute an increasingly vital component of a student's preparation for life beyond the classroom. I am eager to collaborate with schools in their endeavor to establish foundations in these disciplines for their students. I can't wait to see the amazing things our students do."
The appointments of Ms. Taylor and Mr. Fontenot mark a significant step forward in DeSoto Parish Schools' mission to provide high-quality education and support for all students. Their combined expertise and commitment to excellence will play a crucial role in ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.