Nevada Searches for New Superintendent Following Leadership Changes

A gathering of educators participating in discussions about leadership roles in Nevada's educational system.

News Summary

The Nevada Department of Education is actively seeking a new superintendent as Jhone Ebert transitions to a position with the Clark County School District. Applications will be accepted until July 20, with a special meeting scheduled to discuss the selection rubric and interview questions. With over 40 applicants already expressing interest, the state board aims to identify promising candidates by July 30. Meanwhile, the Clark County School Board has shortlisted three candidates for their leadership role, highlighting the need for strong educational leadership amidst ongoing challenges.

Carson City, Nevada – The Nevada Department of Education is on the lookout for a new superintendent following the departure of former superintendent Jhone Ebert, who left her position in April to take a role with the Clark County School District. The search for Ebert’s successor is well underway, with applications being accepted until July 20.

A special meeting has been scheduled for Thursday afternoon, where the state board will discuss and potentially vote on a rubric and interview questions to guide the selection process for the new superintendent. The meeting will take place in-person in both Carson City and Las Vegas, with a virtual option available to encourage public participation and input during the search.

The state board is expected to review the applications for the superintendent role and identify candidates to advance in the selection process during a separate meeting on July 30. This meticulous process follows the resignation of the previous superintendent, Jesus Jara, in February 2024, adding urgency to the search for a capable and effective leader.

The Clark County School Board had their own leadership transition, as they have voted to move three candidates forward in their search for a new district leader, specifically not advancing John Anzalone. The finalists now in consideration are Jesse Welsh, Ben Shuldiner, and Jhone Ebert. The selected candidates will engage with the community in a forum on March 10, which will be followed by interviews conducted by the school board on March 11.

Before the February 5 deadline, over 40 candidates had applied for the superintendent position, indicating a strong interest in leading Nevada’s educational framework. Community stakeholders expressed concerns regarding Anzalone’s experience in managing a large district, marking a crucial factor in the board’s decision-making process. The president of the Clark County Education Association highlighted the critical need for superior leadership to guide the district through turbulent times, especially amidst federal challenges.

Among the candidates, Shuldiner and Ebert presented their visions and plans to the board. Shuldiner emphasized a fresh start for the district, drawing attention to his past accomplishments in the Lansing School District, such as the implementation of universal pre-K and enhanced academic outcomes. He also raised concerns about the district’s budget presentation process, advocating for a greater depth of understanding regarding financial matters within the school system.

In her presentation, Ebert focused on her extensive experience as a change agent and her strong emphasis on collaboration with both staff and families. During her tenure as state superintendent, she worked closely with Governor Joe Lombardo to tackle budget issues within the Clark County School District. The Clark County Education Association has expressed confidence in Ebert’s capability to successfully lead the district and address its unique challenges effectively.

The CCSD Board of Trustees unanimously voted 7-0 in favor of appointing Jhone Ebert as the new CCSD superintendent. Ebert’s previous roles within the district included positions such as chief innovation officer and chief technology officer, providing her with a well-rounded perspective on educational leadership.

Looking ahead, the next steps involve negotiating a contract with Ebert, who is expected to assume her new role by the next board meeting, scheduled for March 27. Her appointment comes during a pivotal moment for both the Clark County School District and the Nevada education system at large.