December 10, 2008

Why Does CISD Have One-Way Contracts?
by Micki Nellis


Recently Judy Senter resigned from her administrative position at CISD to take a job with Joe Ripple, former CISD Assistant Superintendent, now in Brazosport. Ms. Senter had a contract with CISD.

This brings up an interesting question.

Why are administrators allowed to opt out of their contracts when they change their minds, but when the school needs to terminate them, they must buy out their contracts?

Former administrators cost CISD (aka taxpayers) hundreds of thousands of dollars, but, protected by their contracts, CISD paid them nearly $100,000 for time they didn’t work at CISD.

Top administrators, such as the superintendent, are hired with 3-year contracts. The school must buy out their contracts if they misperform, but the administrators are free to ask for raises, more benefits, or to terminate their contracts at any time without penalty. Also, every year the school board typically tears up the old contract and gives them a new 3-year contract, usually with more money and perks. Thus, top administrators are always guaranteed three years of employment or pay, but the school is not guaranteed three years of administrators.