SPS superintendent on medical leave months before departure, district confirms
SEATTLE - The superintendent of Seattle Public Schools is on medical leave months before plans to step down from his role, the district confirmed.
The backstory:
Dr. Brent Jones, who announced his upcoming departure in September, is not currently managing Seattle Public Schools (SPS), though he intends to return before resigning.
SPS Chief of Staff Beverly Redmond sent the following statement regarding Dr. Jones' leave:
"Superintendent Brent Jones is on a health/medical leave, with the intention to return before his September 3 resignation. In his absence, Chief Operations Officer Fred Podesta will have delegated authority to act on his behalf."
SPS did not provide specifics about why Jones is going on leave, nor how long he plans to be away from the district.
Dr. Jones said back in March he decided to end his tenure as SPS superintendent to spend more time with his family.
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones announces departure
The announcement comes after a tenure marked by significant initiatives and challenges.
Jones faced significant challenges since assuming the role in 2021, including navigating the district back from the pandemic and backlash after proposals to close more than 20 Seattle schools.
Fred Podesta, who oversees the district's finances, technology and athletics, is now filling in for Jones.
The Source: Information in this story came from Seattle Public Schools and FOX 13 Seattle reporting.
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