Oxford Schools Superintendent Dr. William Skilling’s contract is set to expire in 2016.
However, the Oxford Board of Education is looking to possibly pull the contract early and extend it five years to 2019.
The proposed contract was to be voted on at the Feb. 12 regular board meeting, but was pulled from the agenda by Board President Colleen Schultz because three board members were absent.
‘This is just too big of a deal,? Schultz said. ‘I wanted us all there to be able to talk about it.?
When asked who brought the contract forward to discuss it, Schultz couldn’t remember.
‘I can’t remember if it was a specific board member or it was me to tell you the truth. I don’t really remember how it unfolded, but it was definitely something the board likes to keep in mind.?
When asked why they are discussing the contract two years prior to its expiration, Schultz replied because ‘the district has a lot of initiatives.?
? I would like us to continue and maintain our momentum. I think we need stability. We have a lot of partnerships and that’s really all there is,? she added. ‘I’m just looking at the future of the district.?
With four board seats up in November, one of which is occupied by Schultz, who has previously stated that she is not running again, she was asked if she was afraid that new board members wouldn’t extend Skilling’s contract.
‘No. I haven’t even thought of that to tell you the truth,? she said. ‘Bill is a strong leader and I think he has led the district and done wonderful things to enhance the opportunities for our kids and that’s what I care about.?
While, this reporter could not obtain a copy of the proposed contract prior to press time, Skilling, who was currently out of state on vacation, did say that ‘the contract is unchanged except they (the board) are looking to extend until 2019.?
When asked if that meant his pay would stay at the current rate and that there would be no yearly increases or bonuses of any sort? He replied ‘Correct.?
Under the current contract his salary for the 2013-14 school year is $163,769. He receives this, plus a laundry list of various fringe benefits.
Schultz said the contract might be discussed at the next school board meeting, which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 at Clear Lake Elementary (2085 W. Drahner Rd.).