I am very honored to be head principal in a community that is strongly devoted to academics and character development. The Charger pride has been passed down through generations and continues to flourish through the dedication of the parents and students of the Southaven community. Southaven High School is focused on student growth and success in academics, extra-curricular activities, and student character.

I am a proud graduate of Mississippi State University with a B.S. in Educational Psychology (04) and an M.S. in Counselor Education (07). I went on to get my Specialist in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University in 2013. I have been a counselor in DeSoto County Schools for 8 years during which my time was spent at Southaven High School as the senior counselor and Southaven Intermediate School. Before coming back to Southaven High School, I was the head principal at Olive Branch Middle School and also served as Assistant Principal at Horn Lake Middle School and Lewisburg Middle School.

I have two amazing children. We are members of Getwell Church.

My name is Grant Alford and I am excited to be a member of the Southaven High School administrative team. I am married to my wife Mindy of 11 years and we have 9-year-old twins, Foster and Sadie.  I am a native of Senatobia, MS, and a proud graduate of Mississippi State University, where I earned a bachelor's degree in Sports Communication.  I also received a Masters's degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State. 

I am entering my 20th year in education. I have served as a substitute, bus driver, secondary math teacher, coach, and administrator during my time in education. With the last 8 years in administration.

My name is Jermal Brown and I always look forward to serving the staff and students of Southaven High School as assistant principal. I possess a bachelor's degree from Delta State University and a Masters's degree from Arkansas State University. I have served as an assistant principal for eight years and I have worked two years at Central Services.

My family is small, but they play a huge role in my life. My wife Patricia is a nurse, my son Mario is a Medical Specialist in the ARMY and my daughter Jada is a senior at DCHS.

Curious and reflective, Dr. Monifa Oni Johnson is a growing instructional leader. Her transition into administration began as a member of the New Leaders’ Aspiring Principals Program - Cohort 11. Dr. Johnson understands the power of challenging learners. She is passionate about learners making significant academic gains and believes in giving learners the space for productive struggle, discussion, and reflection.

Dr. Johnson is in her 20th year in the field of education. Throughout her time in education, she has served in various roles. She is most proud of being named Teacher of the Year; her students achieving the highest growth in her district on their state ELA assessment; presenting at The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Conference; and contributing to Nancy Steineke’s book, Classroom Management: Strategies for Achievement, Cooperation, and Engagement. In line with the mission of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., Dr. Johnson’s professional goal is to pursue excellence.

With twenty-five years of experience in DeSoto County Schools, Mrs. Stafford has been an administrator for fourteen years, but has also served as a teacher, interventionist, and even as a school bus driver.
  She has a master's degree from Delta State University in Educational Leadership, a bachelor's degree from the University of Mississippi in Elementary Education, and graduated from Southaven High School. 



Mrs. Stafford is a life-long resident of DeSoto County. She is married to Chris Stafford who also works for DCS and has a daughter, Rose Catherine who attends DCS. The Stafford family also has two fabulous dogs Scotch, a Boxer and Leo, a Dachshund.

I am excited to have the opportunity to serve as an assistant principal at Southaven High School!  My journey in education began at Athens State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. I graduated from Arkansas State University with a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.  I have had the privilege of teaching Mathematics at the high school level for sixteen years.

Outside of my professional life, I am a proud wife and mother and enjoy hiking outdoors.   I look forward to collaborating with faculty, staff, and parents to enhance the educational experience for all students!  I am honored to be a Charger!