Natomas OKs 4-year Contract with Superintendent

BY BRANDY TUZON BOYD
THE NATOMAS BUZZ | @natomasbuzz

Chris Evans / File Photo

In a resounding vote of confidence, the Natomas Unified School District school board unanimously approved a new four-year contract with its superintendent on Tuesday.

The agreement supersedes the previous three-year contract in place since June 1, 2012 when Chris Evans officially started his role at the Natomas school district’s helm.

The new contract goes into effect July 1 and, as approved, ends June 30, 2017.

School board members said Tuesday the multi-year contract sets the stage for consistent leadership. The district has struggled in recent years with financial woes and labor conflicts.

“I am not a fan of continuity for continuity’s sake, but I am grateful for the continuity we will have for next four years,” board member Scott Dosick said.

When Evans was hired, he became the Natomas school district’s sixth superintendent – including two interim leaders while superintendent searches were being conducted – within three years.

In that time, the district had increased class sizes, laid off dozens of employees, and cut programs in response to budget cuts at the state level.

The district narrowly dodged a state takeover due to its money troubles in 2011.

“We are very pleased to have you,” board member Teri Burns said. “I am excited about your emphasis on fiscal accountability and emphasis on the use of data.”

In addition to medical and dental benefits, vacation time, paid holidays and professional association fees, Evans’ new contract includes:

• An annual salary of $187,500. An increase from $176,000.
• An annual annuity starting at $6,000 for contract year one, increasing to $8,000 for contract year two, $10,000 for contract year three, and $12,000 for contract year four. Evans’ original contract stipulated an annual annuity of $4,000.
• A monthly auto allowance of $500, an increase in $100 per month.
• An annual technology stipend of $1,500 to maintain a home office previously outfitted with an iPad and other hardware by the school district upon Evans’ hire.
• A one-time lump sum payment of $10,000 toward the purchase of a primary residence within the Natomas school district’s boundaries on or before Dec. 31, 2014. The district paid a lump sum of $7,500 last year to cover expenses associated with Evans’ move from Fresno to Sacramento.

“I am excited because I think this past year you established accountability and excellence,” school board president Susan Herredia said. “More great things are going to occur in this district. We’re serious and we’re going forward.”