Much has been written recently about the Iredell Statesville School System and Dr. Holliday, its Superintendent. Some time back I requested a copy of Dr. Holliday’s contract. In Dr. Holliday’s contract it states that in addition to his published base compensation of $170462.28, Dr. Holliday is to receive several bonuses each year.
In addition to his base compensation Dr. Holliday also receives a bonus equal to his Social Security payments, a bonus equal to his retirement contribution, a bonus of up to $5,000.00 to match his cafeteria benefit payments, and a bonus of an annual paid up annuity equal to 10% of his base pay.
Recently, I requested the actual amounts for these bonuses over the last year. The school system provided me with the information for several recent months and stated that I could use those numbers to estimate the amount for the year. Based on my estimates Dr. Holliday was reimbursed $19,577.00 for his retirement and social security payments, the system also paid $2,393.00 for Dr. Holliday’s life, dental, and vision insurance. Most I-SS employees have to pay for these items out of their own pockets. The system also gave Dr. Holliday a paid up annuity worth $17,046.00. This brings Dr. Holliday’s total yearly compensation up to $209,478.00. That means that Dr. Holliday is paid $44,000.00 more each year than the next highest paid public employee in Iredell County.
I guess the school board is trying to emulate those AIG officials who used taxpayers’ monies to pay bonuses to executives even if they didn’t deserve them. How many other I-SS central office administrators are receiving such extravagant and unjustifiable bonuses?
Dr. Holliday also receives reimbursement for professional and civic memberships, travel expenses, and staff development expenses. I have also requested those amounts but I was told that I would have to pay the school system $200.00 to ‘compile’ the information for me. It seems like the school system is trying to hide something.
To paraphrase what Brenda Johnson said in her letter to the editor of the Record and Landmark, the school board could hire someone more capable of doing the Superintendent’s job for much less money than what they are paying Dr. Holliday. I am sure that there are many qualified individuals who would lead by example and integrity instead of ruling by fear and intimidation.
I have really enjoyed reading the letters and articles about ISS. I agree with the documents posted. I hope these and the people writing them will bring about real change in the school system and the school board members.
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