LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The pressure’s mounting on Clark County School District Supt. Jesus Jara. The newest bone of contention is his handling of a budget bill, that has some calling for him to step down.
“We aren’t seeing the type of leadership that this district needs to be able to get through this pandemic," said Vicki Kreidel, president of the National Education Association of Southern Nevada.
She’s criticizing CCSD Supt. Jesus Jara’s handling of a controversial school funding bill, AB-2, during the special legislative session.
Nevada governor criticizes Clark County School District superintendent
“So, when we watched him lie, we were speechless. I literally was in shock,” she said.
Dr. Jara claimed the agenda item was put forth by the state department of education, not CCSD.
Both the state superintendent Jhone Ebert and Gov. Steve Sisolak deny that, with the governor saying in part: “I cannot sit back and remain silent as Supt. Jara tries to wrongfully place blame rather than taking responsibility for his actions. Enough is enough.”
CCSD Superintendent Jara responds to Gov. Sisolak's criticism
Jara responded saying he “regretted” the discussion moved away from education.
Kreidel’s union is calling for Dr. Jara’s resignation questioning his honesty and communication efforts.
“We would like to see someone get into the superintendent role as an interim superintendent that is a strong leader that is trusted so they can get us through what is going to be a difficult year,” she said.
A Change.org petition is also gaining traction asking the board of trustees to review Dr. Jara’s leadership performance. Kreidel says their call for resignation is not personal towards Jara but believes there needs to be a change.
“This would be a good first step, to help us get through the COVID-19 crisis and then keep moving forward in a positive direction,” she said.
AB-2 was voted by the assembly Monday night to be moved to the clerk’s desk - which means it’s likely to fail.
13 Action News did reach out to a couple of school board trustee members and the Clark County Education Association, but they either were unavailable to immediately comment.
