Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones announces departure

SEATTLE - Dr. Brent Jones, Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, has announced his decision to step down from his role, with his last day scheduled for Sept. 3. 

This announcement comes after a tenure marked by significant initiatives and challenges, including navigating the district through the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing budgetary constraints.

Dr. Jones shared more about his decision via video through the district's website saying, "After much reflection and heartfelt conversations, I have decided to conclude my tenure as superintendent this fall. My decision comes from a desire to spend more time with my family. I am providing ample notice to ensure a smooth transition."

SPS has faced significant backlash in the previous year after leadership proposed to close more than 20 schools.

"A lot of us parents were happy that he responded to the public the way he did last year. I thought this is a new opening, a new opportunity," said SPS parent Robert Cruickshank.

All Together for Seattle Schools, a parent organization, says Dr. Jones’ decision will now give the district the ability to change its direction, and it gives them an opportunity to get someone new in the door. 

Cruickshank, also a volunteer with the organization, told FOX 13 Seattle, "We want them to be a change agent, someone who comes in, ideally from the outside, with fresh eyes, a fresh perspective, and takes a look at the entire district, but especially the administration and clean house top to bottom." 

The parent organization is calling for a nationwide search to replace Jones. Their first order of business – repairing and rebuilding trust with the community and leaving behind school closure plans. 

"We want to make sure that a new superintendent recognizes that and will continue the direction, moving away from that towards other things that can actually help students learn and help improve student outcomes. We don't want to backslide and fight that same fight," said Cruickshank.

In a statement, the organization said, "This is a decisive moment for Seattle Public Schools. We hope the new superintendent will be another John Stanford: a proven leader committed to every one of our public schools, who will rally the public to choose those schools, give our schools the freedom to innovate and meet the diverse needs of our students."

Parents are asking the School Board for a transparent and inclusive hiring process for the next Superintendent. They want the community—especially the most vulnerable—to have multiple ways and opportunities to engage, with timely updates and meaningful input that helps shape the decision. They're calling for the finalists' names to be made public, and ask them to meet with the community before the final vote.

Tenure highlights

Since assuming the role of interim superintendent in May 2021, following the early departure of former Superintendent Denise Juneau, Dr. Jones has led several key initiatives aimed at strengthening SPS's commitment to academic excellence. These efforts include the successful passage of levies, advancing equity and inclusion, expanding student support services, and strengthening community partnerships.

Under Jones' leadership, the district achieved accelerated academic recovery from pandemic-related declines at a rate surpassing that of the state and comparable districts.

Upcoming focus

In his remaining months, Dr. Jones plans to concentrate on several critical areas.

Superintendent search

Assisting the school board in the search for his successor to ensure a smooth transition.

Legislative collaboration 

Working with the state legislature to advocate for increased funding for SPS.

Budget planning

Presenting a balanced budget for the upcoming academic year.

Strategic planning

Laying the groundwork for the district's next strategic plan.

School year preparation

Leading efforts to ensure a successful start to the 2025-26 school year.

Transition process to a new SPS superintendent

Timeline:

According to the announcement Monday, details regarding the superintendent search process will be announced in the coming weeks. 

The school board is expected to engage with stakeholders, including families, staff and community members, to gather input on the desired qualifications and characteristics of the next superintendent. This inclusive approach aims to maintain the district's commitment to transparency and community involvement.

Community Impact

Why you should care:

Dr. Jones's departure comes at a pivotal time for SPS, as the district continues to address challenges such as declining enrollment and budget shortfalls. His leadership during the pandemic and efforts to stabilize the district's finances have been pivotal in navigating these complex issues. 

The upcoming transition also presents an opportunity for the community to reflect on the progress made and to collaborate on the district's future direction.

As the search for a new superintendent begins, stakeholders are encouraged to participate actively in the process to ensure that the selected leader aligns with the community's values and aspirations for Seattle Public Schools.

For more information and updates on the superintendent search process, visit the SPS website.

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