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Get to know Superintendent Dr. Dan A. Sims In April, Dr. Dan A. Sims was named the new superintendent of Bibb County School District following the retirement of Dr. Curtis Jones, who had served as BCSD's leader for seven years. We asked about Superintendent Sims's plans as he gears up for his first year leading the district. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT ODOM What is your vision for Bibb County Schools? My vision continues to develop as I engage with this great district. Every student deserves a path to excellence – one that they actively participate in creating alongside competent, caring adults who have insight on each student's interests and dreams. Ideally, I want every student to have his or her own "dream team" working to clear the way for a student to pursue their dreams step by step. All of us can look back and document our path to success, and I seek to ensure every student can do the same. What is your leadership style? I consider myself a collaborative leader. I thrive through working with others as a thought partner in this work. As a leader, I operate through three "holds." First, I hold people accountable. That is, I expect for our employees to perform at high levels every day for every student. I hold high expectations for our partners and parents as an additional advocate for our students. Shared accountability is a key component of our efforts. Second, I hold people able. That is, I eagerly push to ensure we build and honor the capacity of those responsible for our students. Adults thrive when they feel they have what it takes to perform. Our job as a district is to ensure students always have the most capable adults before them. Finally, I hold people close. As a leader, I want our employees to know I am right there with them in the work. When you talk about Bibb County Schools to other school system leaders, what do you tell them? I love this place! Bibb County Schools is a place where some of the most amazing educators reside. We serve a community endowed with a profound sense of pride in the city, and we stand in the space to do some remarkable things not only for our students, but for the entire community. The relationships among Bibb County leaders are a great foundation for our next efforts as a district, and I look forward to 114 maconmagazine.com | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022