Chestnut gets new 2-year deal

The Maricopa Unified School District voted unanimously Wednesday to approve a new two-year contract for Superintendent Steve Chestnut.

“I just want to say thank you for the least two years and bringing us where we’re at,” Board President Torri Anderson said. “I’m very excited with where we are going and the captain of this ship is a good one.”

The contract replaces the final year of his original three-year agreement and is valid for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 school years.

The contract has total annual salary potential of $147,000, the same amount as the first year of his original contract in 2012-13. This includes a base salary of $123,050, performance pay up to $14,700 and a $9,250 contribution to a 403(b) retirement savings account.

Last year, Chestnut received $129,050 including $9,000 in performance-pay.

The maximum potential value of the contract, including short-term disability policy, auto allowance and cell phone allowance, is $157,030 annually, $220 less than 2013-14.

The performance-pay provision is required by state law [see ARS 15-341(A)(40)]. Ten percent of his salary is contingent upon MUSD’s progress toward achieving its goal of being rated an “A” school district and other goals set forth in its strategic plan.

“I’ve greatly enjoyed the last two years and look forward to many more years in the district,” Chestnut said later. “I’m proud of the progress we’re making and am eager to continue it.”
 

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