Pennsylvania Fiscal Watchdog Will Audit Ackerman Buyout
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - Pennsylvania's top fiscal watchdog says he will audit the contract buyout for Philadelphia schools chief Arlene Ackerman and other Pennsylvania superintendents who have received payouts to vacate their posts.
Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner says in addition to the issue of whether the buyouts are appropriate, there is the issue of public disclosure – or the lack thereof.
"Unfortunately, these buyouts are not transparent and we don't know why. If a superintendent is not working out within a school district, shouldn't that contract simply be terminated without the taxpayers having to pay for the contract?"
Wagner is also advocating for legislation that would restrict the ability of school districts to buy out superintendent contracts, calling the buyouts a "scam." He says he expects to begin seeking information as soon as next week and says how quickly the audit of Philadelphia Schools Superintendent Arlene Ackerman's buyout is completed depends on the level of cooperation by district officials.
Reported by Tony Romeo, KYW Newsradio 1060
