School board approves contract for interim superintendent
The Lee County School Board approved interim Superintendent Dr. Larry Tihen’s contract Thursday afternoon with an annual salary of $125,000.
Chairman Steve Teuber and Board Attorney Keith Martin worked on Tihen’s contract with him following the Sept. 22 meeting when Tihen was appointed by a unanimous vote to become the interim superintendent after the board granted Dr. James Browder’s departure.
Teuber said it was a pleasure to draft the contract with Tihen.
“Dr. Tihen truly took the job to move the district forward,” he said. “I support your contract whole heartily… the district is blessed to have you.”
Tihen’s contract also includes a provision that allows the school board to terminate him without cause with a five day written notice. The contract further states that if Tihen is terminated from his position without cause, he will be re-appointed to an administrative position of a pay equivalent to what he held prior to accepting his duties as the interim superintendent.
Board Member Jeanne Dozier commendedTihen for his contract because he only asked for a little more than what the top paid administrator is making.
“I think it is actually remarkable and it shows where his heart is,” she said. “That truly speaks that his heart and head is for the children. That is to be commended.”
Dozier said the contract Tihen asked for speaks very highly of everything he has stood for.
Board Member Jane Kuckel said she has heard thank yous for bringing Tihen aboard numerous times since he was appointed as the interim superintendent.
She said he was the best recommendation and told him she is “very glad to have you with us.”
Tihen said he is very humbled by the honor and trust the school board has put in him and is very appreciative of the support he has received.
“It really heartens me that we are able to move forward with everyone working together,” he said.
He was sworn in on Sept. 24 at 4 p.m. in the school board room by the Honorable John Carlin in the presence of Board member Jane Kuckel. He was sworn in again on Oct. 7 by Carlin in front of all the board members except for board member Elinor Scricca.