Brent Jones Speaks

 Here is the first public statement from new superintendent, Brent Jones. As statements go, it’s about what you would expect but some editing might have helped. 

One key item - he does not say schools will reopen in their buildings in September. He just vaguely talks about “prepare for fall.” 

Also of interest is the fill-in form to contact him available at the district’s website.

Dear Seattle Public Schools Families: 

 

It’s a privilege to return to Seattle Public Schools as the interim superintendent. As I came to work this morning, it felt like coming home. 

 

I have spent more than half my life in SPS. I started at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School and graduated from Franklin High School – go Quakers! Most recently, I served as the district’s chief of equity, partnerships, and engagement and helped lead creation and adoption of the district’s bold strategic plan, Seattle Excellence. The five-year plan is laser focused on supporting students of color who are furthest away from educational justice. Unlike past plans, Seattle Excellence acknowledges that until our district changes systems and disrupts legacies of racism, we can’t fulfill the promise of a high-quality, world-class education – an education that every student deserves. I am also a parent of a graduating SPS senior. 

 

My commitment to SPS is personal.

 

Our city’s public schools need to offer students and their families the very best – rigorous learning, a deep commitment to educational justice, innovation, and a clear path to life success. 

 

There are lots of fantastic things happening for students in Seattle Public Schools and much to be proud about. I also know that many of our students encounter systemic challenges and barriers to a great education; challenges made worse by the pandemic. 

 

As the district plans for a full-time return to school this fall, we have an opportunity to come back stronger than before by centering the perspectives and needs of our students and families in our decision-making.

 

Over these few months, I am committed to moving swiftly to prepare for fall, communicating our progress, and providing a consistent and high-quality educational experience for all students as we close out this current school year. 

 

I am grateful to the School Board for this opportunity to serve and I look forward to engaging in this work with you and our students. If you have questions or comments, you can contact my office by using Let’s Talk. 

 

In partnership, 

Superintendent Jones