"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
The dysfunctional Burke County school board strikes again.
Behind closed doors, a majority recently voted in new superintendent Dr. Arthur Stellar.
We hope the new top educator can live up to his last name.
But we looked at his contract.
Having the freedom to lead in a "stellar" way, could be a challenge.
His contract pretty much says he has to go to the board to say "Mother may I" before making almost any move.
One example?
Hiring new people.
Stellar must first get board approval before hiring anyone.
Another example?
His contract says he can't accept too many speaking engagements without first checking in with the school board chairperson.
Are you kidding me?
In fairness... Stellar's contract isn't all bad for him.
He's getting nearly 145-thousand a year... with a 3-percent annual pay raise.
That's more than what ousted Superintendent David Burleson made.
This higher price... for a man who comes with questions. His former school board didn't renew his contract.
The teacher's union from his last school district gave him a vote of no confidence.
Can Burke County afford to pay more for Stellar?
We sure hope so.
Either way... we're giving yet another heads up to Burke County taxpayers.
Keep a close tab on "Stellar" --
His contract ends in 20-13.
We want you to get your money's worth over the next four years.
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" - tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
