Westford Schools Approves Superintendent’s Bonus

The Westford School Committee has offered Superintendent Everett “Bill” Olsen Jr. a bonus of $3,200 for his good performance during the 2012 to 2013 school year.

Chairman of the School Committee David Keele explained at Monday night’s meeting that the superintendent’s contract includes a bonus provision. If the superintendent meets his goals, which are reviewed and approved by committee members, he’s given the opportunity each year to earn up to $4,000 as a contractual bonus. 

“This is not a bonus we feel good about,” Keele said. “The school committee obviously understands the financial times that we’re in.” 

However, Keele said withholding a bonus would be a breach of contract since the School Committee agreed that Olsen did do a good job.

At a previous meeting, Keele applauded Olsen for his ability to manage the budget “not only in good times,” his leadership and his public outreach skills.

The committee unanimously voted that $3,200 of the possible $4,000 bonus is an adequate bonus.

“The superintendent did a good job, but not a perfect job,” Keele said at Monday’s school committee meeting. 

Olsen reminded the committee that he voluntarily accepted no salary increase in 2012 and 2013. He did not accept his bonus last year.

“I just want to make that clear because we’re all in this together,” Olsen said.

Committee member Arthur Benoit said he believes Olsen dealt with tense contract negotiations well last year, citing his ability to compromise with other town departments. 

“I can’t put a price on Bill’s ability to negotiate with others,” he said.