For DeSoto Parish students, preparing for life after high school can begin with a challenge in today’s classroom. Through expanded Advanced Placement (AP) offerings at all four high school campuses, students have more opportunities to explore their interests, strengthen their skills, and pursue college credit before graduation.
DeSoto’s continued investment comes as Louisiana celebrates national recognition for its progress. On September 29, the Louisiana Department of Education announced that Louisiana ranks first among states in growth since 2019 in the percentage of AP exams earning qualifying scores. That percentage rose from 37.4% in 2019 to 69.1% in 2026—a 31.7-point gain.
In DeSoto Parish, that statewide effort begins with opportunity. AP courses are available at Logansport High School, Mansfield High School, North DeSoto High School, and Stanley High School. Every campus offers AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition, giving students across the parish opportunities to become stronger readers, thoughtful writers, and confident communicators.
Students also have a growing range of subjects to explore. Logansport High School introduced new AP subjects last school year, and the district has continued expanding offerings this year. AP Human Geography is now available at Logansport, Mansfield, and North DeSoto high schools, inviting students to examine the connections among people, places, and communities.
In the district’s latest results, 48% of students who took AP exams earned a score of 3 or higher on at least one exam. Behind those scores are students tackling demanding assignments, teachers helping them work through difficult concepts, and families encouraging them along the way.
These results build on progress documented in DeSoto’s 2025 announcement, when the percentage of students earning qualifying AP scores increased from 26.1% in 2021 to 53.4% in 2025—a gain of 27.3 percentage points.
For families, AP's value extends beyond an exam score. Students experience college-level learning with the support of high school teachers who can answer questions, offer feedback, and help them strengthen their skills. Qualifying scores may also allow students to earn college credit or move into more advanced courses, depending on the college’s policies.
“Expanding Advanced Placement opportunities across our four high school campuses gives students access to rigorous coursework that strengthens critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills while preparing them for success beyond high school,” said Student Learning Supervisor Willa Smith.
“We are proud of our students, teachers, and families whose efforts make this progress possible.”
As Louisiana celebrates its progress, DeSoto Parish Schools continues to advance educational excellence through innovative educational experiences and expanded access to advanced coursework.
About Advanced Placement
The Advanced Placement Program, administered by the College Board, offers high school students college-level courses and exams in a variety of subjects. Many colleges and universities award credit or advanced placement for scores of 3 or higher, though requirements vary by institution. Families can explore those requirements through the College Board’s AP Credit Policy Search.
Students and families interested in AP coursework are encouraged to contact their school counselor to learn about available courses and how they support their interests and future plans.
To learn more about Louisiana’s AP growth, visit the Louisiana Department of Education’s announcement.