Simpson County School Board President Danny Cowart has released a statement adding clarity to the announcement that Dr. Toriano Holloway was leaving the district and that the board would be searching for a new Superintendent of Education.
Cowart explained that Dr. Holloway was sought after by the Vicksburg Warren Central School District, which has over 7,000 students, nearly twice the size of Simpson County School District.
Cowart said the Vicksburg Warren Central School District enlisted Dr. Holloway to lead them in best practice and stated that their district is doing similar things to those being done in the Simpson County School District. He also said they were able to offer Dr. Holloway a financial package that SCSD would not be able to match, adding that the financial package was “significant” and would have a profound impact on Dr. Holloway’s PERS retirement.
Cowart said, “He didn’t seek out the job, they found him, and because of the lifetime impact that this would have for Dr. Holloway, the board voted to release him from his contract effective June 30.”
Cowart stated that the district has begun the process of searching for a new superintendent of education in conjunction with the Mississippi School Board Association. The local board is working with MSBA Executive Director Denotris Jackson to develop a list of qualified candidates who align with the mission and vision of the school district.
He explained that once the list is received the school board will begin the vetting process and narrow it down to four candidates with hopes of making a selection by July 1. If the board is unable to make a selection by that date, an interim superintendent will be appointed by the board until the position can be filled permanently.
Cowart said, “No one inside or outside of the district has been offered the job. The criteria that was a consensus among board members was that our mission, vision, and plan move forward as is. Candidates coming in will have to meet that criteria.”
The Vicksburg Warren School District announced on May 26 that Dr. Toriano Holloway had been selected to serve as their new superintendent beginning on July 1.
Dr. Holloway started with the Simpson County School District on July 1, 2021, and has played a key role in plans for a consolidated high school and other advancements made by the district during this time.
Dr. Holloway shared further details on his departure from the Simpson County School District. He explained that he did not apply for the Vicksburg Warren School District job the first time it came available. He said that the opportunity presented itself again and after praying over his decision he felt God was guiding him in that direction.
He said, “This was an opportunity to lead an innovative district that aligns with my philosophy on education. I went into education to make a positive difference in the lives of kids, and now I have an opportunity to lead and have an impact on 7,000 students.”
Dr. Holloway and other local business leaders have toured Vicksburg Warren Central School District recently. This district served as an example of what Simpson County School District plans to implement through developing academies and the four exit strategies of employment, enlistment, entrepreneurship, and enrollment.
When asked about the status of the planned consolidated high school for Simpson County students, Dr. Holloway said he believes the work will continue.
“I believe the board is committed to continuing the vision we created here with the consolidated high school. Our board is about doing what’s best for our kids and doing this benefits kids and this community,” he said.
Dr. Holloway’s last day with the Simpson County School District will be June 30. He said his plans are to make sure everything is in place for the 2023-2024 school year.
In closing Dr. Holloway said, “I appreciated the support of the whole matter and the opportunity to serve the kids in this district. We have great kids, and they don’t get the support and praise that they deserve. I appreciate the school board for giving me this opportunity.”
