LAS VEGAS -- Superintendent Dwight Jones is stepping down from his position leading the Clark County School District.
Jones is stepping down from his position because of a family illness, a statement from the school district said.
"I thank the people of Clark County for their trust and support," Jones said in the statement. "I am honored to be a part of this hard and worthwhile work. I am leaving because I'm presented with a decision that I'll never have the opportunity to make again – to spend time caring for my mother."
From his Twitter account, Jones tweeted, "I've announced that my service at CCSD will end soon so I can direct my focus on family needs. I'm honored to have served Clark Co."
Jones is expected to stay in the position until March 22. Jones has held the position since December 2010, when he replaced outgoing Superintendent Walt Rulffes.
Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman called Jones departure "a huge loss" for the community.
"In his brief tenure with the school district he has made huge strides to improve education in Southern Nevada," Goodman said in a statement. "We wish his mother a speedy and strong recovery."
In a special meeting yet to be scheduled, the school Board of Trustees will discuss a transition plan that would include appointing a new superintendent or conducting a national search.
The deputy superintendent will serve as acting superintendent after Jones leaves his post until either a new superintendent is hired or an interim superintendent is appointed by the board.
CCSD Superintendent Dwight Jones
