information from Seattle Public Schools

The Seattle Public Schools Board of Directors today approved the contract for hiring Brent Jones, Ph.D., as the district’s interim superintendent. 

Dr. Jones’ official start date is no later than July 1, 2021 and he will serve as interim superintendent until June 30, 2022. 

Dr. Jones will succeed current Superintendent Denise Juneau, who previously announced her intention to not seek renewal of her contract, which concludes June 30, 2021. 

“This is a great outcome for SPS students and families. The selection of Dr. Jones brings needed stability and connectivity to Seattle Public Schools during this time of uncertainty and transition,” said Board President Chandra Hampson. “He is an experienced district leader with a proven track record supporting students, community and staff of color, while striving for overall operational excellence. It is a most critical set of skills at this difficult time.” 

It is a return to Seattle Public Schools for Dr. Jones, who first joined SPS in 2008. Most recently, he served as the district’s Chief Officer of Equity, Partnerships and Engagement until he took a position in 2019 as the Assistant General Manager of Strategy and Partnerships at King County Metro. 

“I want to thank the Seattle School Board for this opportunity to serve in this capacity and I look forward to working in deep partnership with families and staff to create the conditions for students to thrive – no matter the circumstances,” said Dr. Jones. 

“This past year has been difficult for students and families. Tough decisions and challenges continue to face the district. I look forward to working closely with the School Board and staff 

to implement a clear, student-focused vision for this next school year. We have an opportunity to reimagine education so that we return stronger and more student-centered than we were before the pandemic. Our students deserve a future of excellence.” 

Dr. Jones is a multi-generational resident of Seattle and a graduate of Franklin High School. He received a B.A. in Zoology from the University of Washington, M.Ed. in Adult Learning and Human Resource Development, and Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas-Austin. 

Timeline 

January 21, 2021 – board votes to hire interim superintendent to succeed Superintendent Juneau. 

February 24, 2021 – board votes to approve contract to hire Dr. Brent Jones, interim superintendent. 

Fall 2021 – formal search, including considerable community engagement, begins for candidates to apply for permanent superintendent position. 

Spring 2022 – search concludes. 

April or May 2022 – after extensive interviews, board votes on permanent superintendent.