Amid controversy in the Central Bucks School District, a last-minute move saw an outgoing school board slip a generous $700,000 exit package to their superintendent, igniting further unrest. The Democratic majority that defeated the conservative Moms For Liberty members is seeking to challenge the unusual payout they deem illegal in order to restore stability to a district marred by conflict.
The district, home to 17,000 students across 23 schools, has suffered financially from legal battles and public relations issues, particularly surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, with millions spent on legal and PR fees. As the new 6-3 Democratic majority prepares to take power, they are poised to challenge the severance package awarded to superintendent Abram Lucabaugh.
The outgoing Democrats raised concerns that the payout violates state laws limiting such payments to a year’s salary, but their warnings were disregarded. Meanwhile, Lucabaugh, who was absent from the final meeting, has found himself embroiled in a lawsuit, making the massive severance package all the more controversial.
Lily Freeman, a vocal critic of the board’s policies on LGBTQ+ issues and a student at Central Bucks East High School, condemned the spending priorities, describing the package as an insult to both students and taxpayers. She highlighted the urgent need for better resources, such as improved WiFi, which should take precedence over such a lavish exit package.
On the legal front, the package includes a ban on any investigations into Lucabaugh’s tenure, along with a puzzling provision allowing him to retain his district-issued laptop without scrutiny. However, a federal judge has overruled this provision in light of a separate lawsuit involving the superintendent.
Despite the tensions and challenges experienced in recent years, Freeman expressed hope that the new board will bring about positive change, stating that students should not have to worry about their needs being met in a district that should prioritize their well-being.
