Peter Licata is ready to barter his exit as Broward colleges superintendent, with the potential to obtain a payout of about $192,000 as a part of the deal.
Licata, who served simply 9 months within the publish, introduced his intention to retire on Dec. 31 on account of a well being problem he selected to not disclose. At its April 15 assembly, the varsity board unanimously accredited Howard Hepburn, the district's deputy superintendent for the previous eight months, as Licata's alternative.
The board's determination, made throughout a publicly introduced assembly with out prior discover of this system's superintendent change, drew criticism from authorized specialists and faculty board member Daniel Foganholi, who voted towards the proposal.
Foganholi expressed issues concerning the transparency of the method, stating: “Tuesday didn't sit effectively with me and I nonetheless don't sit nonetheless.” He careworn that his objections weren’t directed at Hepburn personally, however on the means of the superintendent's transition.
After asserting his retirement, Licata will have interaction in discussions with board chairwoman Lori Alhadeff on Friday. Any phrases agreed will then require the approval of the total board. Alhadeff may also focus on Hepburn's new contract on the identical day.
Consultants imagine Licata can argue the severance and different advantages listed within the “termination with out trigger” clause of his contract, citing the board's speedy determination to switch him as soon as it discovered of his retirement plans. This provision normally features a 60-day discover interval and 20 weeks' severance pay.
The board's actions sparked debate amongst members about dealing with the transition and the potential monetary implications. Some members, together with Torey Alston, expressed displeasure on the prospect of paying Licata a major severance bundle and advised the funds might be allotted to different district wants.
The varsity board is present process a transition amid challenges, with Hepburn's bid for the superintendent place in Duval County elevating questions on stability. Alhadeff touted Hepburn's {qualifications} and urged the board to safe him as everlasting superintendent to keep up stability within the district.
Regardless of criticism of the method, Hepburn stays centered on fixing the district's issues and enhancing academic outcomes. He emphasised his dedication to the position and willingness to have interaction with stakeholder pursuits to make sure progress inside Broward colleges.
