The Tulsa School Board finalizes its contract with new superintendent Deborah Gist. She will replace Dr. Keith Ballard, who is retiring after the current school year.
The terms of our employment agreement with Dr. Gist are as follows:
- “The contract covers a three-year period, from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018;
- “Dr. Gist will receive base pay of $235,000;
- “In addition to the base salary, there is a retirement package, vacation and health benefits. Other expenses include car, call phone, insurance and other expenses;
- “She will also be eligible for an annual performance incentive bonus of $25,000 per year; and
- “A retention bonus payable after three years in the amount of $75,000.
Dr. Lana Turner-Addison, TPS board president: “We are pleased to have finalized the superintendent employment contract with Dr. Deborah Gist. We feel very confident that we have identified the best person for the job and one who will be a strong follow-up to Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard. Dr. Gist brings a wealth of experience in urban education and academic knowledge that will greatly benefit the district. She has served as an educator, school system leader, public sector manager and a public policy analyst for more than 26 years. Her strong belief that every child can learn is well matched with the board’s vision for our district. “Attracting a qualified leader requires a benefits and compensation package that is aligned with our vision and commitment to student success. As a result, we have come up with a salary and benefits package that is commensurate with Dr. Gist’s experience."