NV DOE Newsroom

NDE and WCSD Announce Settlement to Support Students with Special Needs

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) and Washoe County School District (WCSD) announced a settlement agreement resolving litigation initiated by WCSD in April 2025 concerning CASE (Contingency Account for Special Education) funding for a student with disabilities. Under the agreement, NDE will collaborate with WCSD and other Nevada school districts to review and improve regulations, practices, and processes affecting special education services statewide.

Nevada Department of Education Announces Dr. Torrey Palmer as Deputy Superintendent

The Nevada Department of Education announced Dr. Torrey Palmer will become Deputy Superintendent for Academics & Student Achievement beginning March 30, 2026. Dr. Palmer previously served as Partner at education nonprofit TNTP and as Assistant Principal at Mater Academy of Northern Nevada. She brings expertise in standards-aligned curriculum, assessment, and Nevada Academic Content Standards implementation.

Nevada Department of Education Announces Five Strategic Priorities for Education

The Nevada Department of Education announced five strategic priorities under Superintendent Wakefield: Strong Foundations, Empowering Pathways, Equipped Educators and Leaders, Informed and Connected Families, and Aligned Systems. The announcement concludes Wakefield's first 100 days in office and aims to strengthen classroom instruction, improve college and career readiness, and better align support for schools and districts. Fewer than half of Nevada students are currently proficient in English Language Arts, and fewer than one in five 4-year-olds are enrolled in high-quality pre-K.

Nevada Department of Education Seeks Public Comment on IDEA Application

The Nevada Department of Education is seeking public comment on its annual state application under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for federal fiscal year 2026 (state fiscal year 2027). The state is required to circulate the application for 60 days and accept written public comments for 30 days prior to final submission to the U.S. Department of Education.

Nevada DOE Announces 36 Schools Earn 2026 Purple Star Designation for Military-Friendly Commitment

The Nevada Department of Education announced 36 schools have been designated as 2026 Nevada Purple Star Schools, recognizing their commitment to serving military-connected students and families. The schools, primarily in Clark County School District with three charter schools under the State Public Charter School Authority, join 54 existing Purple Star Schools in the program that began in 2021. The designations coincide with Month of the Military Child, recognizing Nevada's nearly 11,000 military-connected children.