Hamilton County School Board Members Discuss Superintendent Smith’s Contract buy-out

Chattanooga, TN (WDEF) – A proposal was finally announced in a school board meeting this afternoon, after Superintendent Rick Smith asked the Hamilton County School board to buy out his contract last month.

Under the proposal Smith would go on paid leave, effective immediately, remaining on the payroll through the end of June. Then, on the first of July, Smith would be paid the total sum of 263,000 dollars, which represents 35 percent of the total value remaining on his contract.

“I think in terminating, I think we would actually spend more money, then what we’re looking at now,” said school board member, Karista Mosley.

Eventually the topic of a temporary Superintendent was also discussed.  “I think it’s incumbent upon this board that we get outta neutral, and go in drive or go in reverse. And I think us having an interim is important,” said board member, Dr. Greg Martin.

The Hamilton County School Board has until March 7th to make a final decision, and vote.