The search for the next superintendent of the Clark County School District (CCSD) has reached a critical phase, as community members, educators, and students anxiously await a decision that could shape the future of Nevada’s largest school district. On March 10, a community forum held at Rancho High School provided an opportunity for stakeholders to engage directly with the three finalists for the position: Dr. Jesse Welsh, Jhone Ebert, and Ben Shuldiner. Each candidate brought unique perspectives and strategies to the table, aiming to win the trust of the community and address the pressing challenges faced by the district.
Key Highlights from the Community Forum
During the forum, all three candidates fielded questions from students, parents, and staff, covering topics such as teacher empowerment, budget management, student retention, and community engagement. The high-stakes discussion reflected the district’s ongoing struggles with issues like declining student enrollment, teacher turnover, and the need for improved graduation rates.
Jhone Ebert: Balancing Accountability and Empowerment
Jhone Ebert focused her remarks on the importance of balancing empowering educators and principals while maintaining a robust system of accountability. Drawing from her prior experience with CCSD during its budget challenges, Ebert emphasized her ability to hold the district accountable while fostering growth. She also pledged to visit schools and communities throughout the district, underscoring her belief in building bridges between district leadership and families. Her approach signaled a hands-on leadership style aimed at inspiring greater connection and collaboration.
Ben Shuldiner: Financial Stewardship and Union Collaboration
Ben Shuldiner highlighted his strength in making strong budgeting decisions and implementing financial practices that prioritize educational outcomes. As the former head of Lansing’s school district, Shuldiner showcased his success in significantly improving graduation rates, an accomplishment he believes can be replicated in CCSD. Additionally, his experience navigating negotiations with teacher unions set him apart, as he pointed to his track record of establishing effective bargaining agreements. According to Shuldiner, fostering partnerships with staff unions is essential for creating sustainable improvements in the district.
Dr. Jesse Welsh: Reenergizing Educators and Transparency
Dr. Jesse Welsh brought a sharp focus to reengaging educators and earning back the trust of families who have left CCSD in recent years. As the current CEO of Nevada State High School, Welsh is no stranger to the challenges facing Nevada’s education system. He spoke passionately about the need to prioritize transparency and honest communication as key factors in rebuilding trust. Welsh painted a vision of energizing teachers and staff through better engagement, ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive academically.
The Path Forward
The finalists are now entering the final stages of the selection process, with the Clark County School Board set to make its decision soon. On March 11, the candidates participated in the final round of interviews, marking their last opportunity to make an impression before the March 13 board meeting, where the ultimate vote will take place. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the chosen superintendent will be tasked with leading the district through critical challenges and opportunities.
Addressing the District's Challenges
The forum underscored several significant hurdles the future superintendent will need to tackle. These include helping stabilize the district’s finances, improving graduation rates, addressing teacher burnout, and reengaging disenfranchised families who have exited the district. Each of the three finalists brings a distinct leadership style and background to these challenges, and stakeholder input has been pivotal in shaping the board’s deliberations.
The community’s active participation in the forum highlighted the collective hope for a leader capable of fostering progress and bridge-building within CCSD. All eyes will now turn to March 13, when the school board casts its votes and determines which candidate will guide the district toward a brighter future.
The Clark County School District is entering a pivotal moment in its history, and the selection of its next superintendent represents an opportunity to redefine its trajectory. With three strong candidates offering bold visions for the future, the community’s decision reflects the desire for leadership that prioritizes students, educators, and families alike.