Administration
Dr. Bobby Bennett, Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Bobby Bennett serves as the chief executive officer of the district, providing vision, leadership, and direction for all educational programs, operations, and services. The Superintendent oversees the implementation of the district’s strategic plan, ensures compliance with state and federal requirements, and works closely with the School Board to advance goals for student achievement and organizational excellence. Through collaboration with families, staff, and community partners, the Superintendent leads the district in creating safe, high-quality learning environments where all students can thrive.
Dr. Jake Reynolds, Deputy Superintendent
Dr. Reynolds provides district-wide leadership and oversight for central office services, educational programs, and support operations. He oversees district administration, ensuring strong alignment between academic priorities and operational needs. Serving as the Superintendent’s chief advisor, this role drives strategic planning, advances school improvement initiatives, and ensures effective oversight of district business operations. The Deputy Superintendent works closely with district leaders, principals, and community partners to advance the mission and vision of DeSoto County Schools.
Rosa Vargas, Director of Finance
Mrs. Vargas oversees the district’s financial operations to ensure resources are managed responsibly and effectively. This role provides financial guidance, develops forecasts and reports, supports compliance with state and federal requirements, and helps shape fiscal policies that strengthen the district’s long-term stability. The Director of Finance also leads key business functions, including budgeting, auditing, and risk management, to maximize resources and support student success.
Dr. Gina Stafford, Director of Human Resources
Dr. Stafford leads the district’s personnel services, supporting the recruitment, development, and retention of exceptional staff. This role ensures compliance with state and federal employment regulations, oversees employee benefits, certification, and evaluations, and guides labor relations and collective bargaining. The Director of Human Resources works to create a supportive, professional environment where employees can thrive and students can succeed.
Kristie Joens, Director of Instructional Services
Mrs. Joens provides leadership for all K–12 curriculum, instruction, academic support, and Federal Programs across the district. The Director of Instructional Services works closely with schools to strengthen teaching and learning, support school improvement efforts, oversee academic coaching, and ensure every student has access to engaging, rigorous instruction aligned with state expectations and district priorities
Christina McCray, Director of Exceptional Student Education
Mrs. McCray provides leadership and oversight for all ESE and 504 services across the district, ensuring students with disabilities receive the support, instruction, and resources they need to succeed. This role guides compliance with federal and state laws, collaborates with schools and families on student plans and services, and supports staff in meeting diverse student needs. The Director of ESE works closely with educators, service agencies, and parents to create inclusive learning environments and promote positive outcomes for all students.
Kathy Severson, Director of Career, Technical, and Adult Education
Mrs. Kathy Severson provides leadership for the district’s workforce development, career training, and adult education programs, ensuring students and adult learners are prepared for college, careers, and lifelong success. In addition, this role oversees the Family Service Center, connecting families to vital resources and supports that strengthen students and the community. Through strong partnerships with schools, businesses, and community agencies, this position helps align education, workforce readiness, and family services to support the whole child and family.
Dr. Amy Bennett, Director of Student Services
Dr. Amy Bennett provides district-wide leadership for mental health services, school counseling, alternative education, and social work programs. This role oversees discipline, attendance, enrollment, and student support services while ensuring alignment with state and district requirements. The Director of Student Services works closely with school leaders, families, and community agencies to ensure students receive the services and supports they need to be successful.
Jessica Price, Director of Facilities
Ms. Price oversees the maintenance, construction, custodial services across the district. This role ensures that all school facilities are safe, well-maintained, and in compliance with state and federal regulations. Working closely with school leaders and district departments, the Director of Facilities supports efficient operations and provides high-quality learning environments for students and staff.
Tammy Lewis, Director of Food Services
Ms. Lewis oversees all district nutrition programs to ensure students receive safe, nutritious, and high-quality meals each day. This role manages meal planning, food preparation, staffing, budgeting, and compliance with state and federal nutrition guidelines. Working closely with schools, families, and community partners, the Director of Food Services supports student wellness and ensures efficient, consistent food service operations across the district.
Charlie Payne, Director of Transportation
Mr. Payne oversees all student transportation services to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient travel to and from school and district programs. This role manages bus operations, routing, safety protocols, driver training, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Working closely with schools, families, and community partners, the Director of Transportation supports student safety and ensures high-quality service across the district.
Brent Scribner, Director of Technology and Student Information Services
Brent Scribner leads the district’s technology services to ensure reliable, secure, and innovative systems that support teaching, learning, and operational efficiency. This role oversees network infrastructure, hardware and software management, data security, and all student, staff, and financial information systems. Working closely with schools and departments, the Director of IT provides guidance on technology integration, supports district initiatives, and helps ensure that digital tools and resources effectively meet the needs of students and staff.
Francesca Anderson, Assistant Director of Instructional Services
Mrs. Anderson oversees all local, state, and federal assessment programs and supports schools in meeting state and federal accountability requirements. She leads district processes for evaluations and roster verification and provides guidance for data accuracy and reporting. In addition, she oversees the ESL and Migrant Education programs, ensuring students and families receive the services and support they need to be successful.
Stacy Lee, District Curriculum Coordinator
Stacy Lee facilitates K–12 curriculum development and supports schools in delivering high-quality, standards-aligned instruction. She organizes professional learning for teachers and staff, coordinating training that strengthens classroom practice and advances district initiatives. The Coordinator also facilitates collaborative planning with school and district teams to ensure consistent, rigorous learning experiences for all students.
