The DeSoto Independent School District Board of Trustees has named Dr. Elna Davis as the lone finalist for the district’s superintendent position. The board voted Monday, Oct. 26, to select Davis, who has served as interim superintendent since Sept. 14. According to DeSoto ISD, the decision marks the next step in the district’s search for a permanent superintendent as it continues to focus on academic achievement, organizational stability, and student success. Under Texas law, school boards must wait at least 21 days after publicly naming a finalist before taking final action on a superintendent’s employment. DeSoto ISD said Davis will continue serving as interim superintendent during that period. The board may consider formally approving Davis for the permanent position once the required waiting period has ended. Davis brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, including previous roles as a superintendent, district administrator, and campus principal. Before joining DeSoto ISD, Davis served as superintendent of Tarkington ISD, where the district’s College, Career, and Military Readiness outcomes increased from 71% to 99%, according to DeSoto ISD. The district’s graduation rate also improved from 93.9% to 98.3% during her tenure. Davis also helped secure approximately $3.8 million in grant funding and led a debt restructuring effort that saved the district nearly $1 million while shortening its repayment timeline by seven years. Before her time in Tarkington, Davis spent 10 years in Grand Prairie ISD, where she held several leadership positions, including area superintendent, chief of schools, and executive director. Her work focused on improving academic performance, supporting campuses and strengthening district operations. Earlier in her career, Davis spent 17 years in Mansfield ISD, serving as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. While serving as a campus principal, her school was recognized by the Texas Business and Education Coalition for ranking among the top 10% of schools in Texas for five consecutive years. According to DeSoto ISD, Davis describes herself as an “every scholar, every day” leader who emphasizes high expectations, collaboration, meaningful relationships, and continuous improvement. Since stepping into the interim superintendent role in September, Davis has overseen district operations and supported programs serving students, educators, and families. DeSoto ISD serves more than 6,000 students across 10 campuses, with approximately 800 employees. The district serves families in DeSoto, Glenn Heights, and Ovilla. District officials said additional information about the superintendent selection process and any future board action will be shared as it becomes available. ...read more read less