District says 40 candidates wanted to lead Seattle Public Schools here is the finalist

The Seattle School Board selected Ben Shuldiner as the finalist to lead the city's public schools, initiating contract negotiations. Currently the superintendent of the Lansing School District, Shuldiner improved graduation rates by 26% and increased enrollment and attendance rates during his tenure. He will replace Brent Jones, who announced his resignation earlier this year and has been on medical leave. Shuldiner has extensive experience, including founding a successful public school in Brooklyn and serving as a lecturer on educational leadership. Seattle's district plans to implement ambitious initiatives under a newly approved $1.

3 billion education levy, which allocates $235 million for school safety measures. Shuldiner will face challenges including addressing gun violence near Garfield High School as part of his new role. The district's recent decision to reverse plans to close certain campuses, such as Stevens Elementary, adds complexity to his task. With a projected $12 billion state budget shortfall, educational funding remains a pressing issue for Washington’s schools.