DeSoto Parish Schools

MANSFIELD, La. -- DeSoto Parish Schools achieved significant gains in early literacy for the 2025–2026 academic year, according to recent data that measures reading proficiency across kindergarten through third grade.

Districtwide results indicate that the percentage of K–3 students reading at or above grade level increased from 70% at the end of the 2024–2025 school year to 80% in 2025–2026—representing a notable 10-point gain.

“This growth reflects the strong commitment of our educators, students, and families to excellence in early literacy,” said Willa Smith, student learning supervisor.

“Grounded in our core values of high performance and making a difference, we have remained focused on ensuring every child builds a strong literacy foundation. This milestone is not just a measure of progress, but a testament to what is possible when a community aligns around student success," she said. 

School-level DIBELS results

School-level literacy performance data further highlights the district’s progress.  Linked progress reports for each school’s Dibels results  are available below:

"Early literacy is undeniably the single most important indicator of a student's future success,” said Superintenden Clay Corley.

“Reaching this 80% proficiency milestone doesn't happen by accident; it is the direct result of the hard work and high performance of our teachers in the classroom, combined with the irreplaceable support of our families at home. Together, we are living out our mission to make a difference in the lives of our students by building the strong literacy foundation our students need for lifelong success," Corley said.

Louisiana legislation reinforces early literacy

District leaders said DeSoto Parish Schools’ progress aligns with legislative efforts aimed at strengthening literacy outcomes statewide.

Act No. 520 mandates the use of a literacy screener for all kindergarten through third-grade students in traditional public schools. Additionally, Act No. 422 (R.S. 17:24.11) requires that third-grade students who score at the lowest achievement level on the literacy screener may not be promoted to fourth grade.

These measures underscore the urgency and importance of ensuring all students achieve foundational reading skills by the end of third grade, educators said.

Supporting literacy at home

School leaders said families play a critical role in developing strong readers. Parents and guardians can support literacy at home by:

  • Creating a reading-friendly environment

  • Reading aloud with their children regularly

  • Incorporating vocabulary and language-building activities into daily routines

The Louisiana Department of Education also provides a range of Family Literacy Resources designed to support reading development at home.