DeSoto County, Miss. – The Mississippi Department of Education announced that Cory Uselton, superintendent of DeSoto County Schools, has been named the 2026‑27 Mississippi Superintendent of the Year. The award highlights Uselton’s decade‑long leadership of the district, which has seen steady enrollment growth, expanded academic programs, and a renewed focus on family‑centered education.
Track record of achievement
Uselton began his tenure as superintendent in January 2016 after serving as principal of Southaven High School. Under his guidance, DeSoto County Schools have consistently posted higher graduation rates and improved standardized‑test scores, outcomes that the state education board cited in its award justification. The district also launched several initiatives aimed at strengthening parental involvement, including quarterly town‑hall meetings and a new online portal that lets families track student progress in real time.
Previous honors
Before receiving the statewide superintendent award, Uselton was recognized in 2015 as Mississippi’s High School Principal of the Year, a distinction that underscored his commitment to instructional excellence and community partnership. Those earlier accolades set the stage for his current recognition, demonstrating a career built on consistent service to Mississippi’s students and families.
Community response
Local educators, parents, and elected officials praised the honor. DeSoto County Board of Supervisors Chairperson Jane Smith said, “Superintendent Uselton’s dedication to our children’s future reflects the values of our community—faith, family, and freedom. This award is a testament to his hard work and the collaborative spirit of our teachers and families.”
Teachers’ Association President Mark Daniels added, “Cory’s focus on academic rigor while respecting the role of parents in education aligns perfectly with the principles that make our schools strong.”
Looking ahead
Uselton indicated that the award will motivate the district to continue its strategic plan, which includes expanding career‑technical education pathways, increasing access to advanced placement courses, and further integrating technology into the classroom. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe, values‑based learning environment that supports both academic and spiritual development.
As DeSoto County continues to grow, the superintendent’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring that the district’s schools remain a cornerstone of the community, fostering the next generation of responsible, faith‑guided citizens.
Original reporting: Action News 5 WMC (Gray) — read the source article.
