Gov. Christie proposes superintendent salary cuts, merit-based bonuses
Published: Thursday, July 15, 2010, 1:49 PM Updated: Thursday, July 15, 2010, 1:58 PM
Gov. Chris Christie and State Education Commissioner Bret Schundler (right) visit an elementary school in this file photo.SPOTSWOOD — Gov. Chris Christie today said he wants to limit pay for school superintendents based on district size, cutting back salaries for those who already make more than the max, and introduce merit-based bonuses.
The proposal would mean pay cuts for 366 superintendents at the end of their contracts, saving the state $9.8 million, the governor said.
“While families and school districts across the state cope with fewer resources and continued fiscal challenges, many school administrators continue to receive salaries that are out of proportion with the private sector and current economic realities," Christie said in a statement. "This cap will limit excessive administrator pay and ensure that more dollars are available for our children.”
Christie unveiled the limits in Spotswood, where he commended administrators for accepting a wage freeze.
The proposal would mean pay cuts for 366 superintendents at the end of their contracts, saving the state $9.8 million, the governor said.
“While families and school districts across the state cope with fewer resources and continued fiscal challenges, many school administrators continue to receive salaries that are out of proportion with the private sector and current economic realities," Christie said in a statement. "This cap will limit excessive administrator pay and ensure that more dollars are available for our children.”
Christie unveiled the limits in Spotswood, where he commended administrators for accepting a wage freeze.
Pay for superintendents would be pegged to the number of students in a district, from $120,000 for the smallest districts up to more than $175,000 in the 16 districts with more than 10,000 students.
Bonuses for "significant, state-defined improvements in student learning" would be offered, but would not count toward a superintendent's pension.
Christie made teacher pay a major issue throughout the spring, urging residents to vote down
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