Celebrating CCSD leaders: Dr. Claude G. Perkins

The Clark County School District (CCSD) is celebrating Black History Month by sharing the inspiring stories of CCSD’s African-American namesakes who were pioneers in their profession and some of the District’s firsts in education. 

Dr. Claude G. Perkins was the first African-American to serve as Superintendent of CCSD from 1978 to 1981. 

He has a long and distinguished career in teaching, program development, and educational leadership. Dr. Perkins was with the District for 12 years and served closely with previous CCSD Superintendent and Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn. During his time as superintendent, Dr. Perkins worked to improve the teacher-to-pupil ratio, school library access, and restructuring graduation requirements.

For over 20 years, Dr. Perkins has served as a superintendent, a deputy superintendent, as well as an assistant superintendent of schools within three major school systems in the nation.

Dr. Claude G. Perkins Elementary School opened in 2007.