Seattle Public Schools superintendent to step down this fall

The leader of Seattle Public Schools is stepping down this fall.

After "much reflection and heartfelt conversations," Superintendent Brent Jones announced he's leaving the top job at Washington's largest public school district. He made the announcement in a message to families Monday morning. His last day will be Sept. 3.

“It’s been an honor to serve as superintendent of Seattle Public Schools and to give back to the community that shaped me,” Jones said in a video message. “I take pride in the progress that we’ve made together and I remain committed to supporting our students, educators, and families during this transition.”

Jones has led Seattle Public Schools since 2022, after serving as interim superintendent for a year and in other administrative roles with the district before that.

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He's faced many challenges throughout his tenure leading the district — including an unprecedented global pandemic and an ongoing budget crisis, including a nearly $100-million shortfall next year.

In his remaining months, Jones said he'll continue to focus on balancing next year's budget and pushing the state Legislature to boost funding for Seattle and other districts across the state. Jones also pledged to help with the search for a new superintendent.

Jones' departure announcement comes just a few weeks after the school board voted to extend his contract another year, to June 2027.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.