The Simpson County School Board held its regular monthly meeting with a full agenda of recognitions, discussions, and district updates.
The meeting opened on a positive note as the board recognized all elementary students who scored “advanced” or “proficient” on their MAAP (Mississippi Academic Assessment Program) tests. Board members praised the students’ hard work and the teachers’ commitment to academic excellence.
Board member Thomas Ray Floyd made a motion to place an item on the November agenda regarding the potential sale of land purchased from Philip Davis that was to be used for a proposed consolidated high school. Floyd explained that the Simpson County Development District, represented by Pat Brown, had offered $500,000 for the property—an amount he described as being above its current value.
“Pat Brown has offered more than what that price of property is worth,” Floyd said. “It would be poor stewardship of the county’s money not to accept this offer.” He clarified that his motion was only to place the issue on next month’s agenda for a vote to either accept or reject the proposal.
Floyd added that the offer will remain open until the next meeting and encouraged fellow board members to consider it seriously.
Board President Ralph Walker reported that he recently attended a policy conference in Flowood, where he reviewed the rules and procedures all Mississippi school districts are required to follow.
“We have to keep in mind that we are here for the children,” Walker said. “We must follow our policies and the governing laws.”
The consent agenda was approved unanimously.
During the discussion of board travel, Floyd voiced concern about the cost of sending members to the COSSBA National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.
“We’re spending too much money on out-of-state trips,” Floyd said. “We can get all the training we need right here in Mississippi.”
Board member Stacey Herrin, explained that such conferences are an important part of the board’s continuing education. “It is our duty to observe best practices and bring that information back to Simpson County,” she said.
16th Section Land Director Tom McAlpin addressed the board regarding lease payments that are past due. He explained that delays were caused in part by the need for lease approvals from the Secretary of State’s Office before they could be distributed to leaseholders.
Board member Lillie Hardy suggested the board consider implementing a late fee policy for overdue lease payments but emphasized that “all circumstances should be considered.” McAlpin will provide an update at the next meeting.
Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders presented a transportation update, recommending the purchase of new radio systems for school buses to improve communication and safety. The board approved the upgrade.
In addition, the board voted to purchase three new school buses, bringing the total to six new buses acquired this school year. The district will also buy two new Nissan Rogues for driver’s education classes and a 2025 Ford Expedition for district staff to use during training and site visits.
Sanders noted that driver’s education is a state-mandated course and that the new vehicles will help the district meet this requirement safely and efficiently.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Angela Mixon reported that the district’s Average Daily Attendance (ADA) stands at 91.76% for the year. She also highlighted the recent fall district retreat, where principals collaborated on leadership goals and developed a leadership binder to guide school-level planning.
The board approved the finance report, financial statements, and claims docket without objection.
Superintendent Sanders shared updates from his participation in the Superintendent’s Institute, noting that upcoming state legislation may address the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.
He said that 75% of districts across Mississippi are currently rated at a “C” or better and that Simpson County has already seen student performance gains during the first nine weeks of the school year.
Board visits to campuses are planned in the coming months, including a review of Mendenhall High School’s campus improvement plans. Sanders also announced that five architectural firms will appear before the board on October 20 to bid on upcoming district projects.
Sanders reported that both Mendenhall and Magee High Schools held successful homecoming events without incident. However, he noted that the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) has recommended discontinuing tailgating at school events.
“We don’t want to be in a situation,” Sanders said. “We want everyone to know moving forward that is not something that we are going to do.” He added that the district is preparing a tabletop exercise with principals to discuss safety procedures and emergency plans for athletic events.
Executive Session
Before adjourning, the board entered executive session to discuss litigation and personnel matters.
The next regular meeting of the Simpson County School Board is scheduled for November, where members are expected to vote on the proposed land sale and hear updates on transportation, leases, and construction projects.
