At the 2024 NIET National Conference, North DeSoto High School in Louisiana was announced as the recipient of the 2024 NIET Founder's Award and its $50,000 grand prize.

“North DeSoto High School demonstrates how powerful leadership and support for teachers can lead to sustained achievement growth for students,” said NIET Founder Lowell Milken. “We commend Principal Tammie Phillips and her staff for putting in place the structure for educators and students to thrive, and Superintendent Clay Corley and his team for making educator effectiveness a key focus throughout the district. Their work to deepen these principles over time has prepared scores of students to advance successfully in their next stages of learning and life.”

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