Staff unite under "Rise Together" theme to celebrate, connect, and prepare for the year ahead
On Friday, August 1, 2025, the Simpson County School District (SCSD) officially welcomed staff back for the 2025-2026 school year during its annual Convocation. This year's theme, "Rise Together," reflected a shared commitment to collaboration, student success, and continuous improvement.
Held at the Magee High School Auditorium, the event brought together faculty, staff, administrators, and community partners from across the district. The program was guided by Mr. Duriel Jammal Banks, 2025 SCSD Administrator of the Year, and Mr. Patrick Morgan, 2025 SCSD Teacher of the Year.
The event opened with an invocation from Rev. Jack Robinson of Church Alive, followed by greetings from:
Rev.
Ralph Walker, School Board President
Dr. Anika Floyd, Vice President, Copiah-Lincoln Community College (Simpson County Center)
Dr. Eddie Peasant, Assistant Dean, William Carey University School of Education
Rev. Walker acknowledged the dedication of all SCSD employees–from educators to transportation staff–and reminded attendees that their work makes a lasting difference in the lives of students. "Let's make 2025-2026 a school year to remember," Walker said. "And in the words of Dr. Robert Sanders, 'Don't just be, be the best!'"
Students Honor Educators
In a heartfelt tribute, Magee High School senior Kiya Durr and Mendenhall High School senior Corrine Allen expressed gratitude on behalf of the student body.
"This moment is special," said Durr. "We don't always get the chance to say thank you, but today, we want to pause and give you a long overdue notice of appreciation."
Vision, Values, and Leadership
A video presentation highlighted the district's renewed focus on unity and excellence, declaring:
"We are not just a district. We are a movement–united by one mission: To build the best. To bring out the best. To be the best."
Following the video, Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders delivered his convocation address by outlining key priorities and encouraging staff to lead with intention and excellence.
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.
District Goals:
Each year, students will show an increase in student achievement.
Ensure safe, secure, and conducive learning environments for students and staff by maintaining school facilities and implementing comprehensive safety measures.
Foster a positive and inclusive school climate, strengthen community partnerships, and support staff retention and well-being.
Ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and alignment of resources to support student achievement and district priorities.
Portrait of a Graduate:
SCSD Graduates will be:
Effective Communicators
Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers
Motivated and Adaptive Lifelong Learners
Socially Intelligent and Team Players
Community Contributors
New Initiatives for 2025-2026:
Launch a new website and mobile app
Formation of advisory councils for parents, students, staff, and the community
Introduction of school-level Parent Universities to support families
Expansion of partnerships in college, career, technical, and business fields
Launch of a Leadership Academy to develop future school and district leaders
Dr. Sanders also outlined clear staff expectations, encouraging everyone to: Be prepared, be present, do your job, hold students accountable, work as a team, follow policies, celebrate success, address concerns, ensure safety, be innovative, support the district, and–most importantly–have fun.
District Updates and Training
Additional updates and priorities were shared by:
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
Staff also participated in School Safety/CRASE Training facilitated by the Office of Homeland Security.
The program concluded with high-energy performances by the Magee and Mendenhall High School marching bands and cheerleaders. Schools brought the energy and enthusiasm during the annual spirit stick challenge, showcasing their unity and pride as they prepared to kick off the year.
As the new school year begins, Simpson County educators are rising together–with vision, with purpose, and with a shared commitment to be the best.
The Simpson County School District extends sincere thanks to its 2025 Convocation sponsors: American Fidelity, Bailey Education Group, Kids First Education, Performance Based Education Company (PBEC), Priority One Bank, Saint John Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Clint Perkins.