Home of the Wildcats
Administration
Mr. Kevin Thomas, Principal
Kevin Thomas joined USD 232 in 2025 and as the principal of De Soto High School. From the moment he stepped campus, it was evident De Soto High School is a proud community that values relationships, cares for one another, and maintains a positive culture. As principal, Mr. Thomas prioritizes gratitude for the opportunity to work in schools and views working in education as a special privilege. He also places a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and lifelong learning for both students and staff.
Before joining USD 232, Mr. Thomas spent 14 years in education in Indiana and Arizona. He began his career as a high school teacher, serving seven years at Crown Point High School in Indiana and three years at Millennium High School in Arizona. Mr. Thomas later moved into school administration, serving two years as an assistant principal at Millennium High School and two years as the head principal of Verrado High School in Arizona.
Mr. Thomas earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from The American College of Education in Indianapolis and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a focus in history and economics from Purdue University.
Mr. Thomas and his wife, Danielle, are proud to be part of the Kansas community after living in Arizona for eight years. Danielle works in cancer care at The University of Kansas Medical Center. Outside of school, Mr. Thomas enjoys golf, chess, reading, and continuing to learn.
Ms. Michelle Mages, Associate Principal & Athletic Director
Michelle Mages returned to USD 232 in 2016, joining De Soto High School as a math teacher before transitioning into her current role as athletic director and associate principal in 2022.
Ms. Mages began her teaching career in 2000 at Shawnee Heights High School. In 2002, she joined USD 232 at Mill Valley High School, where she taught math for six years. Ms. Mages served as the head softball coach and head volleyball coach at Mill Valley, reflecting her commitment to developing student-athletes and building competitive, values-driven programs. From 2008 to 2021, she expanded her educational experience as an adjunct professor of math at Johnson County Community College.
Ms. Mages is committed to the strong relationships and shared sense of purpose that define De Soto High School and is honored to serve a community grounded in pride, commitment, and tradition. She works to build a positive culture where students, staff, and families feel supported. As both an educator and leader, her focus is on fostering collaboration across academic and athletic programs to promote growth and success for all students.
Ms. Mages earned a Master of Arts in School Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, both from Baker University.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Ms. Mages is the proud mother of two daughters and enjoys following true crime stories, reading, all things sports-related, and spending time with family and friends.
Mr. Aaron Dean, Associate Principal
Aaron Dean joined USD 232 in 2026 as an associate principal at De Soto High School. Mr. Dean is honored to serve students, staff, and families while supporting a positive school culture and student success throughout the Wildcat community.
Before joining USD 232, Mr. Dean worked in the Shawnee Mission School District for 10 years as a high school science teacher at Shawnee Mission South High School. During his time there, he also served as a PLC leader, mentored new teachers, and coached boys’ soccer and track and field.
Mr. Dean is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Kansas, holds master’s degrees from Emporia State University and Kansas State University, and earned an undergraduate degree from Pittsburg State University.
Outside of school, Mr. Dean enjoys spending time with his wife and their two daughters. He also enjoys watching and playing sports, fishing, disc golf, and traveling.
Mrs. Cathryn Monroe, Building Coordinator
Cathryn (Cat) Monroe has been an educator since 2007 and joined USD 232 in 2020. Since joining the district, she has served as a social science teacher and currently serves as the building coordinator at De Soto High School.
Prior to joining USD 232, Mrs. Monroe served as an instructional coach and taught social science at both the middle and high school levels. She also coached middle school volleyball and track, as well as high school bowling and tennis.
Mrs. Monroe has a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Kansas, an educational specialist degree in building and district leadership from Fort Hays State University, and a bachelor’s degree in history/government secondary education.
Mrs. Monroe is a wife and the proud mother of two wonderful USD 232 students. She can most likely be found on the sidelines of De Soto High School sporting and band events. Outside of school, she enjoys baking, reading, walking, and cheering on the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Royals.