Former school superintendent no longer receiving benefits
With former School District of Lee County Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier accepting the superintendent post for Duval County Public Schools, his salary and benefits ended on May 23.
“I am writing to inform you that as per paragraph 7 of the Superintendent Separation Agreement signed on April 9, 2024, between you and the School Board of Lee County, the School Board’s responsibility to provide salary, health insurance, and retirement benefits ends once you secure employment as a superintendent. Since the Duval County School Board selected you on May 23, 2024, you have secured employment,” according to a letter from Chairman Sam Fisher to Bernier.
His April 9 separation agreement states the district would pay salary, health insurance and retirement benefits for 20 weeks. His pay rate was $275,400 annually.
According to the separation agreement, “If Bernier secures other employment as superintendent, or position at a cabinet-level within the 20-weeks outlined herein, all obligations under this agreement shall cease immediately, including salary pay, payment of health insurance, and retirement contribution. Within 24-hours of hire, Bernier shall notify the chair of the school board of such employment.”
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