Principal's Corner

Mrs Lisa Duke

Principal

My name is Lisa Duke I am proud to be the Principal at DeSoto Central Elementary and feel honored to serve our school and community. I am originally from Louisiana but have called Mississippi home for the past twenty years. I have four amazing children, two wonderful sons-in-law, and one granddaughter. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, MS, and my master’s degree from Delta State in Cleveland, MS. I have nineteen years of experience in DeSoto County Schools and am in my sixth year as principal of DCES. I am honored to be a part of the Jaguar Nation!

Sincerely,

Lisa Duke, M.Ed.

LaShundra Hughes

Assistant Principal

I earned a B.S. Degree in mathematics from Delta State University. Shortly after that, I earned a Master of Art in teaching. I have been in education for 10 years. I was in my 5th year of teaching Algebra I at Lake Cormorant High before pursuing my master's degree in educational leadership from Arkansas State University. I am very passionate about building relationships and making sure students get the best education possible.

I’m originally from Greenwood, MS but have lived in Southaven for the past 10 years. My husband and I have 3 wonderful children, one girl and two boys. I look forward to both serving and collaborating with all of our parents and teachers to give our little Jaguars the best experience possible. I am truly grateful to be a Jaguar and eagerly anticipate an amazing year!

Mrs. LaShundra Hughes,
Asst. Principal

Lauren Sayle

Assistant Principal

My name is Lauryn Sayle, and I am honored to serve students, families, and staff as a member of the DeSoto Central Elementary administrative team. This is my 18th year in education, all with DeSoto County Schools. I hold a bachelor's degree in English from Blue Mountain College and a master's degree in educational leadership from Arkansas State University. Throughout my career, I have been blessed to work with a variety of schools K-12, first as a classroom teacher and later as an intervention specialist and state testing coordinator. I have a passion for literacy and building relationships, and I am thrilled to be joining the fabulous team of educators at DCES as we work together to know and grow our students! Go Jags!