Greene County schools host retreat here
Charles Breland, Greene County superintendent of schools was looking for a place to host a retreat for his principals and district staff. He found it in Columbia.
The group traveled more than 75 miles to spend three days in training and workshops before the start of the school year. They even hosted several local educators, former Columbia High School Principal Sheila Burbridge and Marion County School District Superintendent Wendy Bracey as guest speakers. Columbia Mayor Justin McKenzie also stopped by to welcome the dozen or so educators who stayed at the Magnolia Inn & Suites.
“We have nine of the district principals and assistant principal and several of the district office staff people,” Breland said. “We have guest speakers coming in from different parts of the state. This is our way to get ready for the school year.”
Breland said Columbia became a logical choice to hold the event for several reasons.
“We started looking at various locations that would be away from our own district and away form the distractions of what is going on preparing for school, but yet close enough that if we had some type of emergency we could get back,” he said. “We looked at the map and decided on Columbia. You’ve got some great leaders here in Miss Sheila and Wendy Bracey, so we decided it would be a good spot.”
Burbridge said she was excited to share her insight with friends from Greene County, including Breland.
“I’m honored that they thought enough of me and appreciate what I’ve done and what I can continue to contribute to helping children in Mississippi,” she said. “This is a unique thing for Columbia. I met Mr. Charles in Gulfport in another meeting. He said both Ms. Bracey and I have been promoting Columbia and Marion County when we get a chance.”
Breland said he was excited to bring his staff to Marion County for a few days.
“It resembles our district,” he said. “We’re very similar in numbers. It was just a good fit. We’re going to enjoy our stay. We’re eating out in local eateries and enjoying time and fellowship in the community. It was good fit; a good central location away from the bustle of Hattiesburg. It was big enough to accommodate us for what we needed for the three days.”
Pictured Above: Former Columbia High School Principal Sheila Burbridge speaks to members of the Greene County School District staff in Columbia Wednesday afternoon. | Photo by Mark Rogers
