Several faculty members were present during the Obion County School Board meeting in support, of Director of Schools, David Huss, as board members discussed the future of his contract, Nov. 2, at the Career Technology Center.
During the special called meeting, options were explored as to whether Huss’ contract should be extended, for the sake of job security, or to wait closer to the time his contract expires. Final votes, however, usually take place in April.
“Previously we negotiated the contract, and extended it another year to make it a four year contract. There were some questions about that. Job security is Mr. Huss’ main concern. He did not ask for a raise last year,” Chairman of the board Roger Williams said.
Options regarding the contract included a raise, extending the contract, or both.
“It is not easy finding qualified people to hold the position. By us extending his contract, this is a way of showing we want him to stay. We have used the same instrument to evaluate Mr. Huss as in the past,” Williams added.
“I am not here for the money. I came back to be with my family. When I came there was no negotiation with my salary. You have never heard me ask for a raise, and you never will,” Huss said.
Huss listened as board members verbally evaluated his performance. All members expressed their approval.
Board members Brian Rainey and Fritz Fussell had concerns regarding the “for cause” termination of the contract. While board member Diane Sanderson asked if such extensions were customary in other school systems.
“He is in a political position. He does not have tenure. All he has is a contract. I understand Mr. Huss’ desire to have it extended. If I were getting bad vibes, I might have reservations about extending the contract,” Roger Williams said. Although there are no monetary benefits as a school board to extend the contract, if the board becomes dissatisfied with the director’s performance, and he is asked to leave, the director would have the right to fight the decision. If probable cause for dismissal is not found, the board could be ordered to buy out the remainder of the contract.
“If we ask him to leave and he has three years left on his contract, I don’t blame him. I would get a lawyer too,” Rainey said.
“Mr. Huss is very professional. We have a great staff, and I would like to think they are here to support their director. He is doing a good job. I think he will continue to do so. Right now I don’t have a feeling either way,” Fussell said. “I have heard more good things said about Mr. Huss this past year than in the previous years,” Sanderson said.
“If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” board member Glynn Giffin said.
“It speaks well when we can maintain one good leader. It’s going to help our school system,” board member Susan Williams said.
Roger Williams agreed to explore options which could be added to the contract regarding the “for cause” termination issue.
Board member David Lamb was not present during the meeting.
