By Rebecca Wallis
Newberg, OR – July 16, 2024 (updated – 8:40pm 7/16/24, 12:15pm 8/13/24)
Scott Linenberger, the Deputy Superintendent of Newberg-Dundee School District, has been officially notified of his layoff effective July 31, 2024. This decision comes in the wake of significant funding challenges faced by the district, leading to a board-authorized reduction in force.
Linenberger, hired as the District HR Director August 2022, has served as Deputy Superintendent since July 1, 2023. He received the layoff notice, dated July 9, 2024, via certified mail. The letter, signed by Interim Superintendent Dr. Paula A. Radich, outlined that the elimination of his position is a direct consequence of the district’s financial constraints. The layoff notice also specified that Linenberger’s insurance coverage would continue through the end of July, after which he would be eligible for COBRA insurance at his own expense for up to 18 months.
The employment contract (clickable link) signed between Linenberger and the Newberg-Dundee School District stipulated a three-year term beginning in July 2023. According to the contract, the district was to employ Linenberger with an annual salary of $162,000, alongside various fringe benefits including contributions to a Tax Sheltered Annuity, professional development allowances, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
However, the contract also contained provisions for termination. Specifically, it outlined that the district could discharge the Deputy Superintendent without cause, provided that they continue to pay his salary and benefits for a 24-month notice period. This clause ensures that even in the event of an unexpected termination, the Deputy Superintendent would receive substantial financial support.
The layoff notice did not indicate whether Linenberger would receive the 24-month pay continuation, as outlined in the no-cause termination section of his contract, raising questions about the compliance with contractual obligations.
This layoff is part of broader financial adjustments within the Newberg-Dundee School District. On June 11, 2024, the district’s Board of Directors authorized a series of staff reductions to address the budget shortfall. The district has faced mounting financial pressures, necessitating difficult decisions regarding staffing and resource allocation.
In response to the layoff notice, Scott Linenberger has not yet made a public statement. District officials have directed any inquiries to Human Resources Specialist Jennifer Duckworth or Interim Superintendent Dr. Paula Radich.
As the district navigates these financial challenges, the impact on its administrative stability and educational programs remains to be seen. The community will be watching closely to understand how these changes will affect the overall quality of education and the future direction of the Newberg-Dundee School District.
Newberg School District Community and Community Relations Coordinator, Jillian Daley, responded this afternoon, “We do not discuss personnel issues. If you have any questions, please call the Interim Superintendent’s Office at (503) 554-5041.
Editors Note: YCN will follow up the district regarding releasing a contract employee through a Reduction in Force process. YCN also awaits comment from Scott Linenberger on the termination.
As of 8/13/24, the School District, in an effort to walk back the requirement to pay out Scott Linenberger’s contract, is offering a different position at the same contract rate as the previous position. The board will vote on this “reassignment” at the August 13th meeting.
Photo Credit Yamhill County News File
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