Two-day event emphasizes self-awareness, collaboration, and clear goals for the year ahead

On Tuesday, July 22, and Wednesday, July 23, administrators from across the Simpson County School District (SCSD) gathered at the Copiah-Lincoln Community College Simpson County Campus for the district's annual Administrators Retreat. The two-day event served as both a leadership development opportunity and a collaborative kickoff for the 2025-2026 school year.

This year's retreat centered on team-building, personality discovery, and district alignment under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders and his executive team.

Two male principals are working on a project together.

Building Stronger Teams Through Self-Awareness

The first day of the retreat was led by Dr. Annie Wimbish, whose interactive session–"Strengthening Leadership Muscle: Power of Knowing Self and Others"– encouraged participants to deepen their understanding of themselves and their colleagues.

Dr. Annie Wimbish speaking to administrators at the Admin Retreat.

Administrators explored their leadership styles using the True Colors personality assessment, a model developed by Don Lowry that builds on decades of psychological research by Isabel Briggs Myers, Katherine Briggs, and David Keirsey. The model uses four primary colors to represent different personality styles and behavioral tendencies, helping individuals reflect on their unique preferences and how they engage with others in team environments.

According to the materials used during the session:

“Each of us has a different and unique personality. True Colors is a metaphor designed to help people understand themselves and others. When applied in the workplace or school setting, it fosters better communication, increased empathy, and reduced conflict.”

The session allowed administrators to reflect on how their color spectrum shapes their leadership, and how understanding others’ styles can lead to stronger collaboration, greater trust, and more effective teamwork.

Mr. Aaron Williams, assistant principal at Magee Elementary, is speaking at Admin Retreat.

The second day of the retreat featured presentations and updates from Dr. Sanders, assistant superintendents, and department leaders. The leadership team used the time to align around priorities, expectations, and key initiatives for the year ahead.

Topics included:

The district’s new mission and vision statements
The official launch of the district’s motto, Don’t just be—be the best
Strategic goals and accountability expectations for departments and campuses

As the 2025–2026 school year approaches, SCSD administrators are stepping into the year with greater clarity, renewed motivation, and a shared commitment to being their best—for their schools, for their teams, and for the students and families they serve.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders speaking at Admin Retreat.

Simpson Central School

Simpson County School District Administrators Strengthen Leadership at Annual Retreat