GILROY
– The school board is considering extending the superintendent
of schools’ contract another year, which would keep him in charge
of the district for the next four years.
By Lori Stuenkel
GILROY – The school board is considering extending the superintendent of schools’ contract another year, which would keep him in charge of the district for the next four years.
While no final board decision has been made, members have unofficially agreed to extend the term of Edwin Diaz’s contract until 2007 rather than the current end date of 2006. Diaz was hired as superintendent in 2000.
“It’s a definite vote of confidence from the board,” board member David McRae said.
Members have discussed lengthening Diaz’s contract during closed sessions before some board meetings. Once the extension is finalized and voted on, it will be presented in a meeting’s open session.
Still under discussion are an increase in Diaz’s annual salary and rewording various contract passages.
“It’s similar, as we’re fighting for our competitive wage for teachers, we also have to look at the superintendent as well, and really at all positions,” McRae said. “We’ve got to keep our eye on every level at once.”
Diaz currently earns $135,450 annual salary plus $500 monthly for auto expenses.
Given the financial situation of the state and the district, however, there might not be an increase, McRae said.
The board will discuss a salary increase for Diaz once the district and the Gilroy Teachers Association have settled their contract negotiations, Board President Jim Rogers said. The two sides are still negotiating last school year’s contracts.
The board’s proactive step toward keeping Diaz in Gilroy follows board precedent, McRae said. The board often extends the superintendent’s contract well before it expires to assert that they are satisfied with his performance.
