Unanimous Yes Vote To Extend Contract Of Superintendent William Hite
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's a five-year contract extension for Philadelphia's schools chief.
The School Reform Commission by a 4-0 vote approved the deal which would keep William Hite as superintendent until August of 2022, at $300,000 a year.
They did so last night at the end of a raucous, four-hour meeting.
Teacher Yaasiyn Muhammad spoke-out against Hite.
"His record includes school closures, privatizations, layoffs and outsourcing of union jobs that has resulted in more turmoil and instability."
Hite thanked the commission for its confidence and said he would continue his work.
"There will be many people who will not agree with the tough things that must be done. But nonetheless those things must be done."
Under the extension, Hite will receive the same pay raise teachers get.
Commissioner Bill Green said Hite has led the district through difficult financial times.
"He has built what is a great go-forward plan, and he's never -- to this day -- had the resources to implement it."
Green said it was important to maintain stability, especially with the prospect of new money coming in the state budget.