CPS CEO Pedro Martinez on short list to lead school district covering Las Vegas

CHICAGO — Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez is among six candidates in the running to become the next superintendent of Clark County Public Schools in Nevada.

The district, which includes the communities of Las Vegas and Henderson, has been without a leader since February 2024 when Dr. Jesus Jara was forced out, according to KLAS, WGN’s Nexstar sister station in Las Vegas.

Martinez submitted his application for the role earlier this month. In December, the Chicago Board of Education fired Martinez

without cause amid conflict with Mayor Brandon Johnson. Under the terms of his contract, Martinez will be paid his current salary through June and will also receive 20 weeks of severance pay.

Landing the Nevada role would mean a return to the state for Martinez, who previously served as superintendent in residence for the Nevada Department of Education and as deputy superintendent of Clark County schools.

“Beyond being a state I know and love, it’s where my children were born and spent their earliest years,” Martinez wrote in his application. “To return to such a personally and professionally formative place is a unique opportunity I am excited to explore.”

KLAS reports that the school board will hold their first round of interviews later this month. The board will then narrow the field to the top three candidates. The second round of interviews are scheduled to be held on March 10 and March 11. The board hopes to make its decision on March 13.

Clark County Public Schools serves about 300,000 students. Chicago Public Schools had a little more than 325,000 students enrolled as of the start of current school year.