
🌟 Migrant Family Night, November 5th 🌟
Join us for our Migrant Family Meeting THIS EVENING, 5PM – 7PM at the Family Service Center Annex (310 W. Whidden Street, Arcadia, FL). This is a wonderful opportunity for migrant families to connect, learn, and access valuable resources to support their child's success in school and beyond. We look forward to partnering with you because when families and schools work together, students thrive. We hope to see you there!
💙💛 #OneDeSoto #AllForKids #FamilyEngagement
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

DeSoto County, Sandbags Available! Residents will be able to collect sand today, November 2, 2026, from 2:15 PM to 5:00 PM, and on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Residents must make sure they bring a shovel to collect the sand. Pick-up will be at Road & Bridge, located at 1894 NE McKay Street, Arcadia, FL 34266.
For more information, visit desotobocc.com.

The safety of our students, families, and employees remains our highest priority. Due to flooding and concerns regarding road conditions throughout our community, all DeSoto County public schools and district offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 3, and Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
Additionally, all after-school activities, athletics, and extracurricular events scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday are canceled.
Our team will continue to monitor flooding and road conditions overnight and throughout tomorrow to ensure we are making the safest decisions for our #OneDeSoto community. A decision regarding school operations for Thursday, November 5, will be made and communicated on Wednesday.
We recognize that flooding may create challenges for many families, and we encourage everyone to use caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and prioritize safety.
Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and continued support of our students and schools. Please stay safe and take care of one another.
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids. 💙

Greetings, DeSoto Families, due to today's rainy weather, all afterschool activities have been canceled. The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority. As we prepare for dismissal this afternoon, we ask everyone to please use extra caution and allow additional time when picking up students or traveling home. Wet roads and reduced visibility may cause slower traffic than usual.
Our goal is to ensure every student and staff member arrives home safely. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and partnership as we work together to keep our Bulldog family safe.
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

Today our students and staff participated in the annual Character Parade! From colorful costumes to smiling faces, the energy was contagious; the music kept everyone moving, and the excitement was felt from start to finish. What a fun and memorable way to kick off the day!
#OneDeSoto #BulldogStrong #AllForKids
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.








Don't forget to join us for the "Fall Into Resources" community event hosted by the School District of DeSoto County Department of Exceptional Student Education! This special event is designed for families of students with disabilities to connect with community providers, discover helpful services, and build strong support networks!
🗓 TODAY: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍Family Service Center Annex (310 W. Whidden Street, Arcadia, FL 34266)
#Reminder #DeSotoCounty #SpecialEducation #ESE #CommunityResources #FamilySupport #ArcadiaFL #FallIntoResources #StrongerFamiliesBrighterFutures

Designed with our families, students, staff, and community in mind, our new site makes it easier than ever to find the information you need from district news and event calendars to school resources, enrollment information, transportation, careers, and more.
✨ Same mission. Same community. A better online experience.
Visit us today and explore everything the new site has to offer:
🌐 www.desotoschools.com
Together, we are #OneDeSoto, all for kids!

At the School District of DeSoto County, we're proud to join schools and communities nationwide in recognizing Red Ribbon Week, a time to encourage healthy choices, promote positive lifestyles, and empower our students to live drug-free.
This year's theme, "Life Is Your Journey... Make It Drug Free!", reminds us that every decision we make helps shape our future. Throughout the week, our schools will participate in activities that inspire students to make safe, healthy choices and build the confidence to say no to drugs and yes to a bright future.
Together, families, schools, and our community can help create a safe, supportive environment where every Bulldog has the opportunity to succeed. Join us October 23–31 as we celebrate Red Ribbon Week and encourage our students to stay strong, stay healthy, and make choices that lead to lifelong success.
Life is your journey... Make it drug free!
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids. 🐾

Every great journey starts with a strong foundation, and our Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is helping our youngest Bulldogs build the skills they need for a lifetime of learning. Through hands-on activities, engaging lessons, and caring teachers, our VPK students develop early literacy, math, social, and problem-solving skills while gaining the confidence to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
At the School District of DeSoto County, we're proud to offer VPK at all three elementary schools, providing a safe, nurturing environment where curiosity grows, friendships begin, and every child is encouraged to shine.
We are especially grateful for the generous support of The Henson Fund and Gulf Coast Community Foundation, whose investment in early childhood education helps create meaningful learning opportunities for our youngest students. Their partnership is making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families throughout our community.
Together, we're building a brighter future one young learner at a time.
Ready to learn. Ready to grow. Ready to succeed.
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids. 🐾💙
Friendly reminder: Fall Break is coming up! There is no school October 19–23, 2026! Students and staff return Monday, October 26, 2026. Take this time to rest with family, enjoy the season, read a good book, and recharge for what’s ahead! Have a safe and wonderful break, Bulldogs!
#OneDeSoto #FallBreak #BulldogPride #SameBulldogsBrighterTomorrows
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

As we wrap up the first quarter, our Bulldogs have been learning, growing, exploring, and supporting one another every step of the way. From classrooms to campuses, every accomplishment is a reminder that great things are happening in DeSoto Schools.
As we head into Fall Break, we hope our students, families, and staff enjoy a well-deserved time to rest, recharge, and make memories together. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for an exciting second quarter!
Have a safe and wonderful Fall Break, Bulldogs! 💙
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.









The School District of DeSoto County Department of Exceptional Student Education invites families of students with disabilities to our "Fall Into Resources" event! Come connect with our community, discover valuable services, and help grow your family's resource tree! What you’ll explore: community resource providers, family support services & parent connections, educational resources & programs for student success, health & wellness information. Every resource is another branch of support for our students and families. Together, we are building a more inclusive and supportive community! 💙
🗓 Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍Family Service Center Annex (310 W. Whidden Street, Arcadia, FL 34266)
#DeSotoCounty #SpecialEducation #ESE #CommunityResources #FamilySupport #ArcadiaFL #FallIntoResources We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

🚲 Helmet Up & Ride Smart! 🚲
Every ride begins with one simple step, wear your helmet! Whether you're riding to school, around your neighborhood, or with friends, making safe choices helps protect you every time you get on your bike. Be visible and predictable.
Safe riders start with safe habits! Let's work together to keep every Bulldog safe on the road.
Safety Tips to Remember:
🪖 Wear a properly fitted helmet.
🚴 Follow traffic signs and signals.
👀 Stay alert and watch for cars, pedestrians, and other riders.
#OneDeSoto #HelmetUpRideSmart #BikeSafety #SafeRiders #SafetyFirst #AllForKids #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

💙🐾 Reminder for #OneDeSoto Families! 🐾💙
The end of the 1st nine weeks is tomorrow, Friday, October 16th, and students will be dismissed early for a Student Early Release | Records Day. Our teachers will be using the afternoon to finalize grades and prepare report cards as we wrap up the first grading period. Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our Bulldogs. Let's finish the first nine weeks strong!
📅 Friday, October 16
⏰ Early Release for Students
📝 Records Day
#OneDeSoto #AllForKids #BulldogStrong #EndOfFirstNineWeeks #EarlyRelease #EveryDayCounts
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

💙 Happy National Principals Month, Mrs. Irby! 🍎📚
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Mrs. Irby, Principal of Memorial Elementary School! She loves the opportunity to work alongside amazing students, teachers, and families each day. One of her greatest joys is watching students learn, grow, and discover just how much they can accomplish! Thank you, Mrs. Irby, for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to helping our students thrive!🌟
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
#NationalPrincipalsMonth #MemorialElementary #MES #OneDeSoto #AllForKids

Navigating your child’s educational journey can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone! Join FDLRS Heartland for part two of our parent training series: "ESE 101 for Parents – The Next Step: Your Child’s Road to Success." This free parent webinar provides information, resources, and support for families of students with disabilities. We'll dive into the IEP process and answer key questions:
✅ What is an Individual Education Plan (IEP)?
✅ What comes after an IEP?
🗓 Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
⏰ Times: Choose either 11:00 AM OR 4:30 PM
💻 Register Here: https://bit.ly/ESEWebinarPart2-Oct2026 (or scan the QR code on the flyer!)
For questions or more information, reach out to Toia Addison at toia.addison@fdlrsheartland.org. Feel free to share this post with anyone who might benefit! 📲✨
#FDLRS #FDLRSHeartland #ESE #SpecialEducation #IEP #ParentSupport #StudentSuccess
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

Looking for a fun, festive event for the whole family? Join the Library at the Annual Fall Ball! Admission is FREE, and everyone in the community is welcome to join in on the festivities. Here is what you can look forward to: activities & crafts: hands-on creative fun for kids and adults alike, connect with local organizations and neighbors, and fun for everyone: seasonal games, entertainment, and autumn cheer! Gather your friends and family and help us celebrate the spirit of fall. We can’t wait to see you there!
📅 Date: Saturday, October 17th | ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: DeSoto County Library, 125 N Hillsborough Ave
#DeSotoCountyLibrary #FallBall #CommunityEvents #FamilyFun #FallFestivities #FreeEvents
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.

We are proud to announce our 2026-27 nominees for Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year, and School-Related Employee of the Year. These outstanding educators and staff members have been selected by their schools and departments to represent the very best of #OneDeSoto. Each nominee is now advancing to be considered for the district-wide award in their respective category.
Thier dedication, passion, and commitment to our students make a lasting difference every single day. We are grateful for the incredible work they do to support our schools, strengthen our district, and inspire the next generation.
Congratulations to all of our nominees! We look forward to celebrating each of you as the district-wide selection process continues.
#TeacherOfTheYear #RookieTeacherOfTheYear #SchoolRelatedEmployeeOfTheYear #BulldogStrong
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.




October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor survivors, remember those we've lost, support those currently fighting, and encourage hope through awareness and early detection.
Even the smallest acts of kindness and support can make a big difference. Thank you to our students, staff, and families for helping spread a message of compassion, courage, and community. Let's continue to lift one another up, promote awareness, and remind those affected by breast cancer that they are never alone.
Early detection saves lives. Together, we can make a difference.
#BreastCancerAwareness #PinkOut #OneDeSoto #BulldogStrong #AllForKids

Today, we celebrate the incredible educators who inspire curiosity, encourage growth, and help shape the future of every student they serve. At #OneDeSoto, our teachers do so much more than teach lessons, they build relationships, spark confidence, create opportunities, and make a lasting impact on the lives of our students every single day.
To every teacher across our district, thank you for your passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping our students learn, grow, and succeed. Your influence reaches far beyond the classroom, and we are grateful for all that you do.
Happy World Teachers' Day to the amazing educators of #OneDeSoto!
#WorldTeachersDay #ThankATeacher #OneDeSoto #AllForKids #BulldogStrong 🐾
We are #OneDeSoto, all for kids.
