A Journey Through Education

Jhone Ebert has spent 25 years within the Clark County School District (CCSD), progressing from a classroom math teacher at Von Tobel Middle School in 1990 to a cabinet chief. After leaving the district in 2015 for state-level administration roles in New York and Nevada, she has now returned to lead CCSD, which once served over 320,000 students but now has approximately 296,000 due to changes in the educational landscape, particularly influenced by the pandemic.

Engaging Families and Strengthening Education Systems

In her recent inauguration as superintendent, Ebert emphasized the necessity for families to reinvest in CCSD. “We have phenomenal schools. We have phenomenal educators,” she stated, highlighting her vision for the district’s future. Ebert remarked that her primary goal is to make CCSD the preferred choice for education among families.

Active Week of Engagement

Her first week was marked by extensive engagements, including visits to classrooms, participation in an annual staff recognition gala, and overseeing renovations of an elementary school affected by storms. On Friday, Ebert welcomed U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon during her visit to Las Vegas.

Upcoming Initiatives and Appointments

Ebert’s initial school board meeting is approaching, focusing on appointing two essential cabinet members aimed at enhancing student achievement.
– **Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning:** Jesse Welsh, a finalist for the superintendent role, brings experience from CCSD’s classrooms to leadership positions outside the district.
– **Deputy Superintendent of Business Operations:** Felicia Gonzales, previously a deputy superintendent with Nevada’s Department of Education, shares a robust educational background.

Ebert commended both individuals for their contributions to improving graduation rates and expanding advanced coursework over the last few years.

Financial Management and Legislative Focus

As Ebert settles into her role, she is also searching for a chief financial officer, aiming to fill this position within the month. This priority follows the previous CFO’s dismissal amid financial challenges.

With the legislative session in progress, Ebert plans to advocate for early literacy and prekindergarten solutions for younger students, alongside emphasizing math improvement and career readiness for older students. Notably, she has acknowledged support from Governor Joe Lombardo and state Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro towards expanding prekindergarten initiatives.

Fostering Literacy and Future Growth

Addressing literacy, Ebert pointed out that only 42% of CCSD elementary school students are proficient in reading. She emphasized, “Our children, if they’re not literate, they don’t have access to the other content areas,” advocating for increased educational resources and parental involvement.

A Vision for Collaboration

In an open letter to the community, Ebert expressed a collective vision of opportunity and excellence for all students. She called for optimism, encouraging community members to “put aside doubt” and work together toward a promising future for the district.