Nevada Department of Education forms new recruitment and retention commission

Jhone M. Ebert Superintendent of Public Instruction | Nevada Department of Education Website

The Nevada Department of Education has announced the creation of the Commission on Recruitment and Retention, following the passage of Senate Bill 460 by the Nevada Legislature in 2025. The commission is tasked with examining and recommending solutions to ongoing challenges related to Nevada’s educator workforce.

Dr. Steve Canavero, Interim Superintendent of Public Instruction, stated, “We are at a pivotal moment for public education in Nevada. This commission offers a unique opportunity to unify our efforts and develop innovative, data-driven solutions to build and sustain a strong, professional workforce in our schools. I am confident that the collaboration among these diverse groups will lead to meaningful and lasting change.”

The new commission replaces the previous Nevada State Teacher Recruitment and Retention Advisory Task Force, which was initially established during the 2019 legislative session and expanded in 2023 to include education support professionals. With the formation of this new body under Senate Bill 460, the earlier task force has been dissolved.

The Commission on Recruitment and Retention will consist of 17 voting members and five non-voting ex officio members. Its membership will represent various areas such as public education, higher education, human resources, private sector representatives, parents, teachers, administrators, other licensed educational personnel, and education support professionals.

According to the department's announcement, creating this commission is considered an important step toward addressing persistent shortages of teachers and support staff—issues that directly affect student achievement and well-being.

The commission plans to gather input from all stakeholders including members of the public so that its recommendations reflect community needs. Each agency responsible for appointing members is currently seeking interest from its constituents or targeted communities to ensure fairness and transparency in selecting commission members.

Appointment letters must be submitted to the Nevada Department of Education by November 3. The first meeting of the Commission on Recruitment and Retention is scheduled for December.