LAS VEGAS ( KLAS ) — Rene Cantu recently appeared on 8 News Now to discuss his campaign for the Nevada State Board of Education seat in District 3.
Cantu explained the board’s role as setting “policy and vision” for the state’s education system, comparing it to a “North Star” for schools to follow. He discussed the importance of improving student achievement and closing opportunity gaps.
“Our vision is that all of our young people are able to go out there and, you know, basically realize the vision of what they have for their own future,” Cantu said.
One of the board’s key goals is to raise college and career readiness rates from 26 percent to 50 percent and improve Nevada’s achievement ranking.
“Currently, we’re ranked 18th in achievement… [the goal is] to get into the top 10% by 2026,” he stated.
When asked about the Clark County School District (CCSD), the fifth largest in the nation, Cantu acknowledged the complexities within the system. He emphasized what he believes is a need for transparency and accountability, especially in light of recent fiscal issues.