Author: Justin Scanson

Best Buddies is changing lives across Clark County School District (CCSD) by fostering friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With 34 active chapters and nearly 900 participants, this program creates a more inclusive school environment—one friendship at a time. Why It Matters Students in Best Buddies gain confidence, self-esteem, and social skills while forming meaningful connections with their peers. The program helps break barriers, ensuring that all students feel valued and included. “The happiest moments of my teaching career have been when I sit back and watch the magic happen—two people from different worlds connecting,…

The Power of Teacher Lawmakers What happens when educators bring their classroom insights to the Nevada Legislature? You get policymakers uniquely understanding the state education system’s challenges and opportunities. CCSD boasts dedicated teachers and principals who not only shape young minds but also craft state policy. These teacher lawmakers, including Assemblymember Reuben D’Silva, Senator Shelly Cruz-Crawford, and Assemblymember Brittney Miller, are making strides in education policy, prioritizing student success and teacher support. Classroom Experience Meets Policy Expertise Nevada’s education system faces unique challenges, from funding disparities to growing class sizes. Many of these obstacles require nuanced solutions that only those…

For students at Rancho High School, the journey to becoming a teacher starts long before college. As part of the Teacher Academy College Pathway Program (TACPP), students gain hands-on classroom experience, mentorship, and college credit—all while still in high school. This initiative, created by the Nevada Legislature and supported by the Nevada Department of Education, is designed to address the state’s teacher shortage by creating a clear, structured pathway into the profession. With over 300 students enrolled, Rancho’s program is preparing the next generation of educators for CCSD classrooms. Hands-On Experience in the Classroom One of the hallmarks of TACPP…

The Clark County School District (CCSD) is inviting community members to attend a series of meetings on February 10, 11, and 12, 2025, to learn about and provide feedback on the District’s recommendation for a new high school in the southwest. As part of its commitment to student success and responsible resource management, CCSD is proposing that the planned high school be a Career and Technical Academy (CTA) with a focus on entrepreneurship. The school would provide 1,500 seats and offer students hands-on learning experiences, business development skills, and career-focused pathways to prepare them for success in an evolving workforce.…

The United States and Nevada Constitutions entitle Nevada’s children to a free appropriate public education. In addition, NRS 388.132 requires school districts to provide “a safe and respectful learning environment in which persons of differing beliefs, races, colors, national origins, ancestries, religions, gender identities or expressions, sexual orientations, physical or mental disabilities, sexes or any other distinguishing characteristics or backgrounds can realize their full academic and personal potential.”  In alignment with NRS 388.132, Clark County School District Policy 5138 prescribes, “The Clark County School District is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all students, including…

Please refer to the attached memo from the Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget, dated January 27, 2025. Please know that the District is working closely with the Nevada Department of Education. We will continue to monitor the recent temporary pause of federal funding, including agency grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. The District, like other school districts, state and local agencies, and organizations across the country, awaits further clarity on the language contained in the memo from the Office of Management and Budget. Based on current information, we do not anticipate an immediate interruption…

Children in Nevada are entitled to a free appropriate public education, irrespective of their immigration status. The Clark County School District does not check any student’s immigration status and is not responsible for enforcing federal immigration law. Should any law enforcement officer or government agent appear at one of our schools, staff should verify their identity (e.g., ask for identification) and ask for the reason for the visit. If there is a concern with either the identity of the officer or agent or the reason for their visit, staff should immediately contact the Clark County School District Police Department (CCSDPD).…

Sixteen high-achieving Clark County School District (CCSD) seniors are embarking on transformative journeys to some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, thanks to the QuestBridge National College Match program. Each recipient will receive a full four-year scholarship valued at over $325,000—covering tuition, room, board, and other expenses. Why it Matters The QuestBridge scholarships provide life-changing opportunities for students who excel academically yet often face financial hardships. Nationally, 90% of QuestBridge scholars come from households earning less than $65,000 annually, and 80% are the first in their families to attend college. Making an Impact This year, 2,600 students nationwide received QuestBridge…

Overview of the Spring 2025 Budget Release On January 15, 2025, the Clark County School District provided school principals with the estimated amount of money allocated to each local school precinct for the 2025–2026 school year, as outlined in NRS 388G. In compliance with state law, the projected allocations utilize estimates for staffing, including licensed professionals, support professionals, and school-based administrator salaries. In addition, the allocations are based on projected enrollments for the upcoming school year and funding projections. Principals use these figures to collaborate with their School Organizational Team (SOT) to determine their school budget, including staffing, for the…

High school students at West Career and Technical Academy (CTA) are setting new standards in creativity and innovation through their biotechnology projects. Armed with nearly three years of biotech knowledge, these students are tackling real-world problems with solutions that are not only practical but also groundbreaking. One standout project features Dum Gum, a 3-in-1 chewing gum that combines biological science and innovation. The gum combines food-grade diatomaceous earth and Lactobacillus salivarius, a beneficial bacteria that activates as you chew. The bacteria release compounds that fight harmful oral bacteria, addressing issues like bad breath, tooth decay, and even gum disease. This project…