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Simpson County School District Board Appoints Dr. Robert Sanders as Superintendent
The Simpson County School District Board of Trustees, with a unanimous vote, appointed Robert L. Sanders, Ph.D., as the district’s next superintendent, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Sanders brings 25 years of experience in education, having served in various roles, including superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, assistant principal, and teacher. The board selected Dr. Sanders after an extensive search and interview process.
“The SCSD Board members welcome Dr. Sanders back to the district. Having previously worked in the district for eight years as principal and assistant superintendent, he understands the district and our successes, our challenges, and our expectations,” said Rev. Ralph Walker, Board President, Simpson County School District. “He can immediately begin working to improve student achievement and to increase opportunities for our students.”
Since beginning his educational career in 2000, Dr. Sanders has been recognized as a dedicated and transformative leader in public education. He has consistently led initiatives that resulted in meaningful and measurable outcomes for students and schools. His leadership is marked by a strong commitment to data-driven decision-making, instructional improvement, and student-centered strategies. Notable achievements under his leadership include:
- Improved Mendenhall High School’s accountability rating from a D to a B (2017) and increased the graduation rate from 67.7% to 86%
- Led Hattiesburg High School’s 9th Grade Academy to an “A” rating (2011)
- Received the White House Gold Award – School of Distinction (2013)
- Honored with the Governor’s MAPE Partnership Excellence Award (2013)
“I am excited to be selected as the new superintendent of the Simpson County School District, and I am grateful to God for ordering my steps and bringing me back to this district at this point in time,” Dr. Sanders said of his appointment. “I am thankful for the support and vote of confidence from the Board as we strive together to move the district to the next level of greatness.”
Dr. Sanders holds three degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi, including a bachelor’s degree, an education specialist degree, and a doctor of philosophy in educational administration. He also earned a master’s degree from Jackson State University and is a proud graduate of the Mississippi School Boards Association’s Prospective Superintendent Leadership Academy.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Sanders has been widely recognized for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to educational excellence. His honors include Simpson County School District Administrator of the Year (2017-2018 and 2015-16), Simpson County Chapter JSU Alumni Association All-Star Award (2018), Congressional District #3 Administrator of the Year (2015-2016), and Hattiesburg Public School District Administrator of the Year (2008).
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Dr. Sanders is beloved in Simpson County and we are thrilled to having him rejoin our district. His contributions will make a long lasting difference on Simpson County and our students. Welcome back Dr. Sanders! So happy to have you back where you belong!