School Board OKs Pay Increase for Superintendent

Smith's salary rises to $290K after first year in post

By Bethany Rodgers

Jack Smith VIA MARYLAND STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Jack Smith is getting a $15,000 raise after his first year on the job.

The school board on Thursday unanimously approved increasing Smith's annual salary from $275,000 to $290,000. Board President Michael Durso said the pay hike was the board's idea and hadn't originated with Smith.

"It's important for us to acknowledge all that you have done for us," Durso told Smith, who took charge of the school system last year.

Durso read a statement explaining that the increase was aimed at offering the MCPS superintendent a competitive salary compared to what other school districts pay.

Smith, who was present for the vote, said the moment was somewhat awkward for him, but expressed gratitude to board members.

"Thank you for the vote of confidence," he said. "I'm very happy here. It's a good place to work and live."

The pay raise will be retroactive going back to July 1.

In a second adjustment to Smith's four-year employment contract, the board allowed him to redirect unused disability insurance funds to other health, retirement or disability plans.

The board earlier this year changed Smith's contract to grant him an additional $8,000 of reimbursement for moving expenses.

Smith relocated from Southern Maryland to a home north of Rockville for his job as school system superintendent.