The Seattle Public Schools has selected interim Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones to continue in the role, awarding the veteran education leader a two-year contract.

“A thoughtful and charismatic leader, Superintendent Jones has more than 20 years of experience in education and government agencies including six years at Seattle Public Schools,” the district’s statement on the selection reads. “His expertise includes strategic planning, community engagement, change management, and human resources.”

Jones has served in an interim capacity since the departure of Denise Juneau in April 2021. Juneau announced she would be stepping down in the wake of controversy over her handling of COVID-19 policies and relationship with the teachers union during the pandemic.

Jones has been a longtime part of the district, serving as chief of equity, partnerships and engagement and helping to lead the creation and adoption of the SPS strategic plan. Prior to that role, Dr. Jones served as the district’s chief of human resources.

Jones is the the first Black man to lead the district in more than 20 years.

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