PORT TOWNSEND — The Port Townsend School Board has approved a three-year superintendent’s contract for David Engle, paying him $125,000 annually.
School board members unanimously approved the contract for Engle, 63, Monday night.
Engle will begin work as the district’s new superintendent July 1.
The contract allows Engle 25 days per year of paid vacation and includes a life insurance policy.
The contract is for 260 days, which covers the entire school year.
Gene Laes, who has served as superintendent for the past two school years, worked four days a week at a $96,000 salary.
He was tapped for the job on an interim basis after Tom Opstad left in 2010 for a position with the Aberdeen School District. He earned $114,758 a year.
The three-year contract approved Monday can be extended by the board in December 2013, or the board can then choose to allow the contract to expire on the current contract end date of June 30, 2015.
Engle was selected March 9 from a field of four finalists that was winnowed down from 23 applicants.
School Board President Jennifer James-Wilson lauded Engle’s “sense of vision,” adding: “I was drawn to his lifelong sense of social justice and believe that he will help us deliver education to every student who passes through our doors.”
Engle will move from Lawrenceville, N.J.
He holds a doctorate, and his experience includes serving as a school superintendent in North Platte, Neb.
“I am looking forward to working in Port Townsend,” he said after the board selected him.
“I like the eclectic nature of the community, and the diversity and variety of the area.”
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie.
bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
