Dr. Chris Bernier, the new superintendent for Jacksonville’s public schools, is requesting a salary that surpasses the President’s. With a $350,000 base salary, plus numerous perks, Bernier’s compensation package is raising eyebrows. As he steps into his new role, comparisons to other high-earning superintendents highlight the growing trend of lucrative contracts in education leadership.
Superintendent’s Salary Request Raises Eyebrows
The new superintendent of Jacksonville’s public schools is asking for a salary exceeding that of the U.S. President. Dr. Chris Bernier, appointed unanimously by the school board, seeks a $350,000 annual salary.
Additional Perks and Costs
Bernier’s contract request includes various costly perks. He wants a $1,000 monthly car stipend, $15,000 for transition expenses, $87,500 yearly in retirement contributions, and up to $50,000 annually for a mentor.
Performance Bonus for Cabinet Members
The contract also proposes a significant performance bonus. This bonus would allow Bernier to distribute tens of thousands of dollars among his cabinet members.
Pending Counteroffer from District
Local outlet News4jax reported the proposal obtained from Bernier’s attorney. A district spokesperson indicated a counteroffer is forthcoming.
Top-Tier Salary Request
Bernier’s requested base salary is the maximum advertised for the job. A $350,000 salary would place him among the highest-paid superintendents in Florida.
Comparison with Other Counties
His requested salary surpasses those of Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, and Orange County superintendents for the 2022-2023 school year. It matches the salary of the Broward County superintendent.
Previous Position in Lee County
Before accepting the Duval position, Bernier served as the superintendent of Lee County schools in Fort Myers, Florida. His salary there was reported at $275,000 annually.
Bernier’s Tenure in Lee County
By April, Dr. Chris Bernier had completed two years as the Lee County superintendent. He decided to leave after the school board chose to switch to an elected superintendent system.
Departure Statement and Career Move
In a statement, Bernier explained his decision to step down from Lee County. He respected the community’s choice for an elected superintendent and chose not to run for office.
Seeking Appointed Positions
Bernier actively sought an appointed superintendent role this spring. He highlighted improvements in student outcomes in Lee County and expressed optimism for similar success in Duval County.
High Salary but Standard Perks
Bernier’s requested package totals over $400,000 annually, surpassing the U.S. President’s salary. However, many of his requests are standard compared to his peers’ compensation packages nationwide.
Comparisons to Other Superintendents
In Wichita, a new superintendent was hired last year with a base salary of about $300,000, plus additional perks similar to Bernier’s. Similarly, Conway School District’s Jeff Collum in Arkansas receives comparable stipends and allowances.
