Dr. Christopher Bernier proposes $350,000 contract, negotiations with DCPS continue

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Negotiations have begun between Duval County’s next top educator and the district. Dr. Christopher Bernier is asking for a $350,000 salary according to a draft proposal obtained by Action News Jax.

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Dr. Bernier’s attorney sent the district the draft contract last week and now DCPS is working on a counteroffer. He was selected for the job in May.

The salary request is at the high end of the range the district advertised in its superintendent job posting.

Bernier was making $275,000 at Lee County Schools before he suddenly quit.

The $350,000 ask of the district is $50,000 more than Dr. Bernier’s predecessor, Dr. Diana Greene, was making when she left after the board agreed to a 10% raise.

The proposal also includes $1,000 a month for Dr. Bernier’s personal car, which includes the cost of insurance, maintenance, and gas. $3,000 a year would compensate Dr. Bernier for all costs associated with the job. The proposal also includes $15,000 for moving expenses.

Duval had the sixth highest-paid superintendent in Florida with $300,000 for Dr. Greene. Dr. Bernier’s proposal for $50,000 more would put Duval tied with Broward for pay.

A district representative told Action News Jax that contract negotiations could go on for days and will eventually go to the board for a vote.

SEE BERNIER’S DRAFT CONTRACT BELOW:

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