DeSoto County honors middle schools with Preps achievement awards for academic growth

DeSoto County's middle schools are celebrating significant academic achievements following the recent announcement of the Preps Achievement Awards. During the school board meeting on April 4, 2025, it was revealed that several schools have excelled in math and English Language Arts (ELA) assessments, earning recognition for their outstanding performance.

The Preps program honors schools that show remarkable growth, with awards given to those achieving scale score increases at least twice the state average. Notably, DeSoto Central Middle School received both the seventh-grade ELA Achievement Award and a top 10 Math Growth Award. Fernando Bridal Middle School also shone brightly, securing two awards for sixth-grade ELA and seventh-grade achievement, along with a top 10 Math Growth Award.

Other schools recognized include Lewis Gart Bridal, which earned two seventh-grade awards in ELA and math, and Olive Branch Bridal, which received a seventh-grade math achievement award. Southaven Bridal was acknowledged for its seventh-grade ELA achievement as well.

In addition to academic accolades, the meeting highlighted the Aspiring Teacher Leaders program. This initiative supports educators dedicated to making a positive impact in DeSoto County schools and communities. Participants in the program are recognized for their commitment to professional growth and collaboration, fostering a supportive learning environment.

These achievements not only reflect the hard work of students and educators but also underscore the district's commitment to academic excellence. As DeSoto County continues to prioritize educational growth, the community can look forward to further advancements in student performance and teacher development.