Plymouth School Board holds public hearing on new superintendent contract valued at nearly $190,000

Tuesday evening, before a special meeting to appoint a new superintendent of the Plymouth Community School Corporation, the school board conducted a public hearing on the proposed contract.

Board President Stacy Patrick noted that while it is a public hearing, the board would not respond to any comments or questions. 

Laura Kruyer of the Plymouth Educational Association (PEA) commented on the awkwardness of the public hearing because most of the time, participants have more questions than statements.  She said the two main questions she received from PEA members were why there was such an increase in the base salary.  She said that while reviewing the current superintendent’s contract, it didn’t show because the health insurance is not part of this package.  The second question members had was: why does the corporation pay for two superintendents at the same time?

In closing, Kruyer noted that the new contract is slightly higher, about $5,000, and asked that the school board address the two questions PEA members have put forth in an upcoming meeting.

Kruyer also commented that with an increase in the superintendent’s contract, she hopes that teachers will see an increase in their next contract with the corporation.    

The proposed superintendent’s contract will be effective from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029. The annual base salary is $161,800, with a $9,000 annuity, $3,225 for VEBA, that state’s retirement benefit, a $3,500 vehicle allowance, $900 technology allowance, $10,00 for professional development, $468 for Life Insurance, and $800 for association memberships, for a total contract value of $189,693.

The Board shall allow 40 days of paid time off, which may be utilized as sick days, personal days, or vacation days, at the Superintendent’s sole discretion. The Superintendent shall also receive those other generally recognized holiday breaks provided for all staff members in the school calendar.

A copy of the contract is available on the school district’s website.