DeSoto Parish Schools proudly announces that Ms. Anesha Ross, Principal of Mansfield High School, has been named the 2024-2025 DeSoto Parish Principal of the Year. A product of DeSoto Parish Schools herself, Ms. Ross has dedicated over a decade to advancing education and leadership within the district, making a lasting impact on both students and staff.
Under Ms. Ross' leadership, Mansfield High School achieved its highest School Performance Score (SPS) in its history, 97.5, for the 2022-2023 school year. The school has maintained its "A" rating while experiencing significant improvements in academic performance for the 2023-2024 school year. Notably, Mansfield High School increased its SPS in five of the six core subject high school assessment areas.
Brandon Burback, Director of Administration, praised Ms. Ross's leadership, stating:"Ms. Ross has shown extraordinary leadership, leading by example and continually going above and beyond for her students, staff, and the community she serves. Not only has Mansfield High School experienced significant academic growth under her leadership, but there has also been a steady increase in student engagement and community involvement. So excited for Ms. Ross and Mansfield High School! Go, Wolverines!"
Superintendent Clay Corley shared his admiration for Ms. Ross, saying:
"I can think of no one more deserving of this honor than Anesha Ross. Her commitment to high performance and dedication to serving others truly set her apart. She represents the true spirit of 'The DeSoto Difference,' ensuring that every action she takes is focused on providing the highest-quality education for all. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and passionate leader in our district, and I look forward to seeing her continue to make a difference in the lives of our students and families for years to come."
Ms. Ross's journey within DeSoto Parish Schools is a testament to her dedication and passion for education. She was honored as the 2005-2006 DeSoto Parish Student of the Year and later as the 2013-2014 DeSoto Parish Teacher of the Year. Her career in education is defined by excellence in leadership, including key roles such as Career and Mentor Teacher at Mansfield Middle School (2010-2014), Master Teacher at Mansfield High School (2014-2016), and Assistant Principal at North DeSoto High School (2016-2020). In July 2020, she returned to Mansfield High School as Principal, where she continues to lead with a focus on academic achievement and positive school culture.
Beyond school leadership, Ms. Ross has played a crucial role in fostering student and teacher development. She facilitated Educators' Rising as Assistant Principal, guided the Upward Bound Trio program as Principal, and collaborated with Northwestern State University to support summer learning initiatives. Her dedication to supporting new educators is evident through her work as a Master Teacher, inducting new teachers into the DeSoto Parish school system.
When asked about her recent honor, Ms. Ross expressed her gratitude:
"Being named the DeSoto Parish Schools' 2024-2025 Principal of the Year is a huge and unexpected honor. I am most excited for our faculty, staff, students, and community. This recognition celebrates their hard work; I am just blessed to be a small part of the puzzle. I pray that I represent our entire Mansfield community well."
As a result of her selection, Ms. Ross will represent DeSoto Parish Schools in the Louisiana Department of Education's state-level Principal of the Year competition.