Apr 25, 2008 9:53 am US/Eastern
Principal Asks To Remain At School Even For $1
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
Larry Feldman, principal at Devon Aire K-8 in southwest Miami-Dade, wanted to see his dream come true when the school completes its expansion from kindergarten through 8th grade. In June, he'll be losing his position after the district dismisses administrators who have been 'double dipping' or being paid higher salaries than others to remain in their jobs after retiring.
An
I-Team Investigation first revealed the double-dipping at Miami-Dade County Public Schools as tax dollars were paid to train hundreds of teachers as administrators. After all the training, they still can't get the jobs, because administrators were kept in their positions after being retired. Feldman was a principal retained after retirement at a higher salary than someone who could replace him.
Records list 27 retired administrators rehired by the Miami-Dade School District. Their salaries combined total $3.2 million. Most of those so-called double dippers were rehired at a higher salary. They collect a pension and more, thanks to "the drop"--the state's deferred retirement option program.
"The State of Florida gives them a huge golden parachute, sometimes upwards of a quarter of a million dollars when our employees retire," said School Board Member Ana Rivas Logan.
After the I-Team report, the Miami-Dade School District said it would review and change its policy.
On a field trip with parents and students, Feldman explained that he would work for $1 salary if he can keep his health insurance, six vacation days and his administrative team. "Mainly, because I have deep feelings for the kids at school and the parents. I mean, they have been outstanding," he added.
Feldman said if he could not stay on as principal, he'd show up and volunteer as a crossing guard.
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