LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Today, Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak and Nevada Department of Education Superintendent of Public Instruction Jhone Ebert released the following statements regarding Assembly Bill 2, and Clark County Superintendent Jesus Jara’s statement that the agenda item stemmed from a request from the State Department of Education.
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Assembly Bill 2 temporarily removes a requirement for year-end balances of certain local school precincts to be carried forward as restricted fund balances.
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Superintendent Jhone Ebert said: “It is incredibly concerning that Superintendent Jara is again blaming the State for his actions, instead of taking responsibility for CCSD’s request to sweep funds from individual schools to cover the district’s funding deficit. Once it became clear the proposal did not have support, Superintendent Jara disrespected our elected officials and the entire CCSD community by misrepresenting his intentions."
“As a leader in education, he has a responsibility to set an example for our children. Blatantly altering the truth is not only a bad example, but it’s a disservice to the educators, students and families he represents.”
“During this unprecedented crisis, we need to leverage our collective capacity and resources to do what’s best for students and educators, in both the short and long term. As we navigate this challenging and uncertain time, it is imperative that we lead with honesty and transparency – Nevadans deserve nothing less.”
Governor Steve Sisolak added: “In the midst of a global pandemic and a legislative special session to address our historic budget shortfall, we are focused on how to solve the major challenges facing our State. However, I cannot sit back and remain silent as Superintendent Jara tries to wrongfully place blame rather than taking responsibility for his actions. Enough is enough.”
“While I’m not surprised, I’m incredibly disappointed that once again Superintendent Jara has tried to mislead the communities he represents and blame others in order to avoid the repercussion of his poor decisions.”
“Being superintendent of one of the largest school districts in the nation requires leadership — especially in the midst of a crisis. And leadership requires honesty. Unfortunately, that is not what we get from Superintendent Jara. Clark County students, staff and families deserve better.”
13 Action News has reached out to the superintendent for his reaction.
