Trustee Phoenix began his term as trustee in January 2025 representing District C, which is comprised of North Valleys and Spanish Springs communities as well as Natchez and Gerlach. He was unanimously appointed by the Board of Trustees to fill the vacant District C seat.  He is the first WCSD Board Member to be an accredited member of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe.

James “JJ” Phoenix grew up and resides in the Reno Sparks area, specifically upon the Pyramid Lake Paiute Indian reservation.  He is a public servant, veteran, and parent. He, his children, and family all graduated from Washoe County schools, and he considers Washoe County his home.  He is a retired Reno Police Officer and retired Nevada Army National Guard Lieutenant Colonel with more than 25 years of military and police officer experience.

Trustee Phoenix has a strong passion for the community. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Education for the Pyramid Lake Jr./Sr. High School, Chairman of the Pyramid Lake Tribal Council, and has served on the Tribal Council.  He is the Co-Chair of the Veterans Committee for the National Congress of American Indians and serves as a member of the Nevada Local Justice Reinvestment, coordinating the council for Washoe County. 

Trustee Phoenix looks forward to representing the families in his District.  He plans to be a transparent voice to and for the WCSD Board of Trustees to better serve and engage with his constituents.  His interests include ensuring equality for all students and families within WCSD and to be a role model in the community who demonstrates a “Can Do” attitude. 

Trustee Phoenix welcomes constituent communication and feedback. Please feel free to contact him with your thoughts or concerns at any time.

Contact “JJ” Phoenix by email at James.Phoenix@washoeschools.net