Education

It is in Mesquite's best interest to improve our local schools on many levels. Along with the availability of housing, friendly business climate, and public safety, education is a very important factor considered by companies looking to start or relocate a business.  And, as a parent of two students in our local schools, it's personal!

I have served our local schools in many roles, including:

• Virgin Valley Elementary School Volunteer 2014-2019
• VVES SOT (School Organizational Team) Member 2016-2019
• Virgin Valley CEAB Member 2019-present
  
  

It pains me to report Nevada historically ranks at the bottom when it comes to aspects like High School Graduation Rates, Preschool Enrollment, and Reading and Math Assessments. In fact, the latest ranking from US News & World Report puts us at #48 of 50. Mesquite is in the 5th largest school district in the nation, Clark County School District, with headquarters nearly 100 miles away. Our roughly 2,400 K-12 rural students are funded using the same formula as the roughly 325,000 students in the district. Other rural schools are funded much more per student. It is not uncommon for elementary students to be in a classroom with 40+ other students! This is unacceptable!

As a Mesquite City Councilman, I have helped lobby and supported ways for Mesquite Schools to have more autonomy and freedom when it comes to spending the funds dedicated to our schools and curriculum. In City Council, I introduced a resolution in support of a state bill sponsored by Nevada State Assemblyman Toby Yurek and State Senator Jeff Stone to allow northeast Clark County its own school district. Unfortunately, that effort failed in the state legislature. I will continue to fight for more funding, freedom, and autonomy in our schools!