Dr. Sanders shares vision, new initiatives, and call to excellence across Simpson County School District
The Simpson County School District (SCSD) has officially begun a new chapter under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders. Over the course of July, community members, families, and staff gathered for a series of "Meet the Superintendent" events–designed to introduce Dr. Sanders and provide insight into his vision for the future of SCSD.
The district hosted its first "Meet the Superintendent" event at Simpson Central on July 17, followed by a second gathering at Magee Elementary on July 21 for the Magee community. The final event is scheduled for Monday, July 28 for the Mendenhall community, beginning at 6:00 PM.
At both events, School Board President Rev. Ralph Walker offered words of welcome and led in prayer.
"It is my honor and privilege to officially welcome back Dr. Robert Sanders to Simpson County as our new Superintendent of Education," Rev. Walker said. "This unanimous vote reflects our strong confidence in his vision, leadership, and commitment to academic excellence, student achievement, and community engagement. We believe that his return is not only timely, but divinely ordered by God. As it is written in Proverbs 29:18, 'Where there is no vision, the people perish.' We are excited about the journey ahead."
Following his introduction, Dr. Sanders shared highlights from his 25-year career in education. He began as a teacher at Jim Hill High School and went on to serve in key leadership roles–including principal of Hattiesburg High School and Mendenhall High School, and Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent in both Simpson and Hinds County school districts. A licensed and ordained minister, Dr. Sanders is married to Mrs. Kendra Sanders, and they have one adult son, Keaston Sanders.
Dr. Sanders introduced his executive leadership team:
Dr. Angela Mixon, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Federal Programs
Dr. Furlinda Travis, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Operations
Mrs. Shelia Copeland, Chief Financial Officer
The superintendent then presented the district's new mission and vision:
Mission: To be a district where all students excel, feel valued, and learn in safe, inclusive environments supported by strong community and staff collaboration.
Vision: To ensure every student achieves academic proficiency, foster a positive school climate, strengthen community and staff partnerships, enhance safety, and maintain fiscal responsibility to support student success.
Dr. Sanders also introduced SCSD's updated Portrait of a Graduate, outlining the district's commitment to producing students who are:
Effective communicators
Critical thinkers and problem solvers
Motivated and adaptive lifelong learners
Socially intelligent team players
Active contributors to their communities
"Graduates will leave our schools college, career, and life ready," he said.
One of the most resonant moments of the evening came as Dr. Sanders introduced the district's new motto, a guiding principle he's carried throughout his career:
"This is not just a statement–it's a call to action," he said. "When we say Don't just be, be the best, it means no matter your role–custodian, teacher, student, principal–do it with excellence. Bring your A-game everyday. Because when we all strive for our best, Simpson County will be a district that people talk about– one that stands out."
New Initiatives for the Year Ahead
Dr. Sanders also outlined several new initiatives launching in the 2025-2026 school year:
A new district website and mobile app to enhance communication
Creation of advisory councils for parents, students, staff, and community members
School-level Parent Universities to help families better understand academic expectations and assessments
Stronger college, career, and technical education partnerships to prepare students for post-secondary success.
He also acknowledged ongoing priorities such as overhauling bus routes, asking families for their continued patience and understanding as improvements are made.
How Families Can Support
Dr. Sanders encouraged families and community members to get involved and support students by focusing on the A-B-C's:
Attendance
Behavior
Coursework (Grades)
Staying informed, getting involved, and maintaining open communication
Important Upcoming Dates:
July 31 - Meet the Teaches/Open House
August 4 - First Day of School
Report Cards - October 16 (1st Term), January 15 (2nd Term), March 26 (3rd Term), May 28 (4th Term)
Graduation 2026:
Magee High School - Thursday, May 21 at 8:00 PM
Mendenhall High School - Friday, May 22 at 8:00 PM
Each meeting concludes with a Q&A session, allowing attendees to voice questions and share suggestions as Dr. Sanders and his team prepare for the school year ahead.
As the community rallies behind this new chapter, one messages rings clear: Don't just be–be the best.
