DeSoto County Schools is pleased to announce that Jessica Burgess, Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Center Hill High School, has been selected to participate in the Leadership DeSoto Class of 2026.
Leadership DeSoto is a flagship community leadership program designed to strengthen civic engagement, deepen participants’ understanding of countywide operations, and build cross-sector networks that drive long-term community impact. The program has a long-standing track record of shaping professionals who contribute meaningfully to workforce, economic, and community development.
Mrs. Burgess' selection represents a strategic advantage for our district. As a Work-Based Learning Coordinator, her role hinges on cultivating strong relationships with local employers, industry partners, and civic leaders. Embedding her in a cohort of emerging community leaders positions her to expand those partnerships, elevate our district’s workforce initiatives, and create additional high-value opportunities for students across DeSoto County.
This is a high-caliber professional development experience, and Jessica’s participation underscores our ongoing commitment to operational excellence, community alignment, and building sustainable talent pipelines for our students.
We are proud of Jessica for earning this opportunity and look forward to the impact her leadership will continue to make on behalf of our district.