Buckeye Valley board approves five-year contract for superintendent starting Aug. 1, 2026

The Buckeye Valley Board of Education approved a five-year contract for Dr. Strange, the district superintendent, that will run Aug. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2031, with an annual salary of $180,000 and additional benefits, the board confirmed at its regular meeting at GCC.

Board members voted by roll call to approve the contract after a short discussion about timing and evaluation. Board members asked why the renewal window opened more than a year before the current contract’s expiration; a member noted it is standard practice legally to begin negotiations up to 18 months before a contract ends.

The board and district administrators said they are also working to develop measurable evaluation criteria for the superintendent and treasurer that can be used to assess performance in coming years. The contract as presented includes an increase in vacation days (five additional days were noted during discussion) and standard benefit provisions.

The item was moved, seconded and approved by roll call. The transcript shows the board debated the timing and noted this practice is typical; speakers said early renegotiation can indicate an intent to continue or to provide time for transition if not rehired.

The board’s approval came amid public comments earlier in the meeting that asked about the timing and raise eligibility associated with the superintendent’s contract renewal, and district staff said statutory rules allow early negotiation.

Details not specified in the public minutes: which board member moved and seconded the motion and the full roll-call vote by name. The board's discussion indicated the district will finalize evaluation metrics this summer and incorporate them in policy where appropriate.

Dr. Strange’s contract will take effect Aug. 1, 2026, replacing his currently approved contract that runs through the next 14–15 months prior to that date.