North DeSoto High School was named the recipient of the 2024 National Institute for Excellence in Teaching (NIET) Founder’s Award, earning national recognition and a $50,000 grand prize. The announcement was made during the 2024 NIET National Conference in Dallas, Texas, where NIET Founder and Chairman Lowell Milken, alongside CEO Dr. Joshua Barnett, surprised the school with the honor.
The Founder’s Award, established in 2008, is given annually to one school in the United States that demonstrates exceptional commitment to educator excellence and student achievement. North DeSoto High School was among just five finalists nationwide considered for the prize.
North DeSoto High School’s selection was based on its dedication to instructional excellence, ongoing professional development, and a culture of collaboration that drives student growth. The school has prioritized teacher leadership, instructional best practices, and a feedback-driven approach to address both teacher and student needs.
“North DeSoto High School demonstrates how powerful leadership and support for teachers can lead to sustained achievement growth for students,” said NIET Founder Lowell Milken. “We commend Principal Tammie Phillips and her staff for creating a strong foundation for educators and students to thrive, and Superintendent Clay Corley for making educator effectiveness a priority throughout the district.”
Since 2015, North DeSoto High School has maintained an “A” rating from the Louisiana Department of Education. Over the past three years, the school has consistently outperformed state averages in the percentage of tests scoring “mastery and above” on state assessments across all subjects. Between 2021 and 2023, the school increased these scores by 13 percentage points, compared to a statewide increase of just three points.
“North DeSoto High School built its success on strengthening the skills of its faculty, making great teaching the core of its strategy for growth,” said NIET CEO Dr. Joshua Barnett. “This steady commitment to excellence has led to higher student achievement, and we congratulate the entire faculty, community, and district leadership on this well-earned recognition.”
Located just south of Shreveport, North DeSoto High School serves 809 students, nearly half of whom are economically disadvantaged. Through its partnership with NIET, the school has implemented innovative strategies to support both educators and students.
“Our administrators, leadership team, and teachers have individual growth plans that encourage intentional reflection,” said Principal Tammie Phillips. “We consider student portfolios, projects, exams, and extracurricular activities. Reflection is now a fundamental part of our culture at North DeSoto High School.”
The school’s instructional leadership team (ILT) plays a key role in professional development, providing resources, support, and coaching to help teachers grow. NDHS also utilizes NIET’s Teaching and Learning Standards Rubric to establish a common instructional language and tailor professional learning opportunities. The Principal Standards Rubric is used to strengthen leadership and coaching strategies.
North DeSoto High School was chosen from a group of five finalists, each of whom received $10,000. The other finalists included:
Clinton Elementary School (Clinton City Schools, Tennessee)
Desert View Elementary School (Gadsden Elementary School District #32, Arizona)
Lockett Elementary School (Orangeburg County School District, South Carolina)
Winona Middle School (Winona Independent School District, Texas)
With this prestigious honor, North DeSoto High School continues to set the standard for excellence in education, demonstrating how strong leadership and teacher support can lead to sustained student success.