About

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY, DRIVEN BY PURPOSE

About the Foundation

Since 1997, the DeSoto County Education Foundation has worked to bridge the gap between classroom needs and community support. We believe that strong schools build strong communities—and that every student deserves the resources, inspiration, and encouragement to thrive. From innovative teacher grants to student scholarships and recognition programs, our mission is simple: empower education in DeSoto County at every level.

Every Dollar Makes a Difference

Investing in Students, Supporting Teachers

From the classroom to the graduation stage, our mission is powered by the belief that opportunity should never be out of reach. Through teacher grants, student scholarships, and recognition programs, we work alongside educators, families, and local partners to strengthen the educational experience in DeSoto County. Every initiative we support is rooted in one goal: helping students and teachers reach their full potential.

We know that in a small, rural district, it’s often the little things—a classroom project, a mentor’s encouragement, a scholarship check—that change the trajectory of a life. Your support makes those moments possible. When you give, you’re not just funding programs; you’re fueling confidence, creativity, and a stronger future for our entire community.

Thank You

When you uplift teachers and students, the whole community rises.

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DeLoach Headshot

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jodie DeLoach

Jodie DeLoach serves as the Executive Director of the DeSoto County Education Foundation, bringing with her a lifelong passion for education and community impact. A former classroom teacher with several years of experience in public education, Jodie understands the real-world challenges educators face and is deeply committed to helping both students and teachers thrive.

Her journey from teaching to nonprofit leadership has equipped her with valuable insight into grant management, educational programming, and building meaningful partnerships. Under her leadership, the Foundation continues to expand its efforts to enhance learning opportunities, elevate teacher support, and connect community resources where they’re needed most.

Jodie is proud to lead with a vision rooted in progress, equity, and excellence—and is always eager to connect with those who share in the mission of empowering education in DeSoto County.

Board of Directors

Meet the leaders guiding our mission to support DeSoto County students, educators, and schools.

Ramirez

Oralia Ramirez

Chair

Ali,-Kelli

Kelli Ali

Vice Chair

Bautista, Eric

Eric Baustista

Treasurer

DeLuca,-Ashley

Ashley DeLuca

Secretary

Nedley,-Heather

Heather Nedley

Past Chair

Cerna,-Irene

Irene Cerna

Director

Hackney,-Bill

Bill Hackney

Director

Hall,-Parker

Parker Hall

Director

Gammad,-Courtney

Courtney Gammad

Director

Greth,-Amy

Amy Greth

Director

Jones,-Quinn

Quinn Jones

Director

Sager,-Lindsey

Lindsey Sager

Director

Straka,-Ashley

Ashley Straka

Director

Velasco,-Luis

Luis Velasco

Director

Wertz,-Debbie

Debbie Wertz

Director

Markey,-Martha-Jo

Martha Jo Markey

Advisor