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Board debates wording of superintendent's 'rolling' contract and complaint handling
Summary
Board members asked for clearer language about whether the superintendent's contract is a rolling three-year agreement and discussed how complaints and personnel matters should be routed to preserve confidentiality while keeping the board appropriately informed.
Chair Hege and several directors pressed for clarity about the superintendent’s contract at the North Wasco County School District 21 work session on Oct. 9, noting that written language appears to reference only one-year extensions even as district practice has functioned differently.
Dr. Carolyn Bernal, the superintendent, told the board the contract is "intended to function as a rolling 3-year (evergreen) agreement, where each successful annual evaluation adds one year." Director Kelley said the "rolling" language is not clearly stated in the written document and asked where the official contract is kept. Vince Adams, representing OSBA, advised that rolling contracts are common to retain stability.
The discussion also covered salary and personnel mechanics. Dr. Bernal addressed rumors about raises, explaining that management salary adjustments "mirror those negotiated for the union" and that adjusted licensing or pay matters are brought to the board for required approvals. The board reviewed evaluation timing (evaluations completed by April 30), notice requirements for staff departures, and termination notice periods.
Board members debated their role when community members bring complaints. Dr. Bernal advised directing people to Policy KL and notifying the superintendent; Adams and Dr. Bernal cautioned against board members becoming involved in personnel or HR matters while recognizing board members may act as "eyes and ears" and funnel concerns to the superintendent. Directors suggested a standard response template for community inquiries and asked staff to improve communication about staffing and organizational charts to align hiring with budget signals.
The board did not take a formal vote on contract language at the work session; members asked staff to return with clearer contract references and a possible work-session item to map organizational roles and staffing by building.
