LETTER: Nevada’s new superintendent must put students first

Gov. Joe Lombardo must choose a new Nevada superintendent of public instruction to guide the education of those we cherish and love, the state’s children. He must choose a person who has demonstrated that he or she has been an activist for children, not someone who is just a “status quo,” continue the program “as is” type of superintendent.

It’s not good enough that the candidates were involved in educating children. They must be dedicated promoters of revamping Nevada’s public schools. Nevada’s “as is” status has children below grade level in reading and math and, for the past several decades, well below the nation’s norms in almost every area.

The governor was given three candidates from the State Board of Education, a body not known for shaking up things. He can choose one of the three or reject all three and ask for other candidates. Whatever he does, Gov. Lombardo must explain how the new superintendent will be an agent of change and an activist for children, their education and their future.