Hawkins County Board of Education extends Director Matt Hixson’s contract, adjusts leave language

The Hawkins County Board of Education voted unanimously Sept. 4 to renew Director of Schools Matt Hixson’s employment agreement for a four‑year term and to amend his leave provisions.

The board approved an extension of Hixson’s contract that keeps his base salary unchanged and modifies leave language so that he accrues one sick day per month of employment, and is provided six personal days per year by converting three professional days to personal days. Board members discussed the change at length before taking the vote. “I feel like I’m adequately compensated,” Hixson told the board as members offered an optional 2.9% state‑issued cost‑of‑living adjustment that he declined.

The contract renewal was presented as a combined renewal and amendment to leave policy. Board members praised Hixson’s work during his six years in the district. The motion to accept the contract as presented was made, seconded and approved by roll call; the board stated the vote was unanimous and set the contract term to begin immediately and run four years.

In addition to the contract vote, the board approved routine business: minutes from the August meeting, the meeting agenda format (including a scheduling change to move contract discussion earlier), and the consent agenda items B and C. The board also conducted annual officer elections: reelecting the sitting chair (Mr. Christian), naming Debbie Shedden vice chair and appointing Alina Garlova as the district’s Tennessee Legislative Network representative.

Board Chair Mr. Christian opened discussion on the contract by highlighting Hixson’s reputation across the state and listing accomplishments under his leadership. Hixson emphasized continued work on the district’s strategic plan and a personal commitment to raise all schools to state performance levels.

Votes at a glance - Director contract renewal and leave amendment: approved (board announced unanimous vote). - Approval of August minutes: approved by voice vote. - Approval of meeting outline and agenda (with contract moved earlier): approved by voice vote. - Consent agenda (sections B and C): approved by voice vote. - Annual officer elections: Chair (Mr. Christian) elected; Vice Chair (Debbie Shedden) elected; TLN representative (Alina Garlova) elected.

The board recorded the contract action as effective immediately; the exact start and end calendar dates were recorded in the signed contract paperwork and will be placed in the personnel file. Hixson and board officials said they will continue work on district priorities and capital projects in the coming year.