Carson Elementary
October 18th, 2026

Week of October 19th - 22nd
Dear Carson Families,
I am honored and excited to introduce myself as the new principal of Carson Elementary! It is a privilege to serve this wonderful school community, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our students, staff, and families.
While I may be new to Carson, I am not new to Decatur ISD. I have had the opportunity to serve our district in several leadership roles, including eight years as principal of Young Elementary and most recently as Director of Assessment, Accountability, and Federal Programs. These experiences have strengthened my passion for education and my belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
As we move forward together, my goals for Carson are simple but important:
Academic Excellence: Maintain high expectations for every student while providing the instruction, support, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
A Positive School Culture: Create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where students feel loved, valued, and excited to come to school each day.
Strong Relationships: Build meaningful partnerships with students, staff, and families through open communication, trust, and teamwork.
Continuous Growth: Celebrate our successes, identify opportunities for improvement, and work together to ensure every student makes meaningful academic and personal growth.
I believe that great schools are built on strong relationships, high expectations, consistency, and a shared commitment to doing what is best for kids. I also believe that our students are capable of incredible things when we challenge them, believe in them, and provide the support they need to succeed.
My commitment to you is to lead with a servant's heart, make decisions based on what is best for students, and work alongside our dedicated teachers and staff to make Carson the very best it can be.
I know that change can bring questions, but I want to assure you that my focus will always remain on our students. I value your partnership and encourage you to reach out, share your thoughts, and stay involved in your child's education.
I am excited about what lies ahead for Carson Elementary. Together, we will build on the great things already happening while continuing to raise the bar for our students.
Every Child. Every Day. Whatever It Takes.
Thank you for trusting us with your children. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning, growth, and success!
With Eagle Pride,
Lana Coffman
Principal, Carson Elementary
Mark Your Calendar
October 19th - DISD Board Meeting
October 21st - $1 PTO Hat Day
October 22nd - $1 Toasty Toes Thursday
Fun Run
October 23rd - No School
October 26th -29th Red Ribbon Week
October 27th - 2nd Music Program at 6:00pm
Trunk or Treat at 5:30pm
October 30th - No School
Red Ribbon Week is Oct. 26th -29th.
Watch D.O.G.S.
A big THANK YOU to our Watch D.O.G.S. who volunteered at Carson last week, John Walterbach and Benjamin Bowman. We appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedules to support our students and staff. Your presence makes a difference, and we are so thankful for you!
If you’re interested in being a WATCH Dog one day this year, feel free to sign up here:
WALL OF HONOR SUBMISSION FORM
If you’d like to add a veteran in your family to our Wall of Honor, please use this link:
Carson Elementary School
Decatur ISD
2100 Bus. 81/287 South
Decatur, TX 76234
Phone: (940) 393-7500
Fax: (940) 627-4792