The race for the next superintendent of the Clark County School District is nearing its conclusion. Last night at Rancho High School, the final three candidates participated in a public forum to present their qualifications. Dr. Jesse Welsh, a CCSD veteran with over two decades of experience; Jhone Ebert, the current Nevada Superintendent of Public Instruction; and Ben Shuldiner, an experienced school district superintendent, each outlined their plans. Community members raised concerns on various topics, including school safety and teacher recruitment.
According to FOX5 Vegas, Welsh focused on the importance of a healthy school climate and culture, a response to too many voices advising to "keep your head down, don’t say anything." He aims to implement changes from day one, following over 22 years of experience within CCSD.
Meanwhile, News 3 LV highlighted Ebert's dedication to collaborating with law enforcement to prevent firearms from reaching school campuses, a particularly relevant issue following a recent incident at Cimarron Memorial High School. Shuldiner, the candidate without local connections, emphasized his experience in district operations and his ability to drive growth in school districts across the country.
Shuldiner openly addressed concerns related to finances, stating to the audience that "there's $4 billion out there" and suggested, he believed that "saving this program would be possible," referring to budget issues raised by Silverado High School's ROTC students. Meanwhile, Welsh touched on the need for school staff and leaders that resonate culturally with a diverse student body. Pastor M.J. Ivy told News 3 LV that the forum provided clarity on which candidate he might support, although he did not disclose his preference.
The candid discourse continued as Shuldiner outlined the problems with the one-star school ratings, the 81% graduation rate, and the sub-20% proficiency in high school math—issues he vows to tackle head-on. Ebert, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of being "fully present at the legislature," to support beneficial education bills, as she shared in an interview with News 3 LV. The candidates promised transparency and accessibility throughout the forum, likely a response to criticisms of former superintendent Dr. Jesus Jara canceling public forums.
After the forum, the candidates prepared for further scrutiny. A special meeting by the Board of Trustees today, followed by a key board meeting on Thursday, will decide who will be appointed superintendent. Community members and stakeholders had the chance to provide feedback through a QR code, which will directly influence the final decision, as reported by FOX5 Vegas.
