DeSoto Independent School District proudly announces that Dr. Gene Morrow, Executive Director of Student Support Services/Operations, has been selected to join the 2025–2026 cohort of the Southern Methodist University (SMU) District Leadership Fellows program. This highly competitive, year-long hybrid leadership training is hosted by the Institute for Leadership Impact in SMU’s Simmons School of Education & Human Development in Dallas, Texas.
The new cohort of school district leaders includes representatives from across Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, and California, serving districts ranging in size from 1,000 to 67,000 students. Through intensive collaboration with peers and nationally recognized education experts, Fellows will strengthen their leadership skills, address pressing challenges in K–12 education, and develop networks that will continue to impact student success long after the program concludes.
“Being part of the SMU District Leadership Fellows program is an honor and an opportunity to deepen my leadership practice while connecting with other dedicated educators across the nation,” said Dr. Morrow. “I look forward to bringing back innovative strategies that will support our students, staff, and community in DeSoto ISD.”
Prior to joining DeSoto ISD, Dr. Morrow most recently served as the Coordinator for the Texas Principal Residency Program with the Texas Center for Educator Effectiveness in Austin, Texas, where he designed and implemented systems of support for principals and created innovative principal residency models. He also founded and led The Principal’s Advantage, providing experiential leadership development for school and community leaders to enhance organizational performance.
His career includes service as a principal in Lancaster ISD and Grand Prairie ISD, as well as an academic coach at Lamar University. In his current role as DeSoto ISD Executive Director of Student Support Services/Operations, Dr. Morrow oversees critical operational and student-centered departments, including Student & Staff Support Services, Child Nutrition, and Fine Arts. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and a Doctoral Degree.
“Dr. Morrow’s selection to the SMU District Leadership Fellows program reflects both his leadership capacity and his commitment to continuous professional growth,” said DeSoto ISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Usamah Rodgers. “His participation will not only benefit him as a leader but will also bring valuable insights and strategies to strengthen our district’s operations and student support services.”
The SMU District Leadership Fellows program is strengths-based, focusing on cultivating transformational leadership skills uniquely tailored to the challenges of K–12 education. Fellows work together to address complex problems, build leadership competencies, and create sustainable improvement in their districts.
