Brewer Superintendent Will Give Her Raise To The Students

The new superintendent for the Brewer school system announced this week that, while she appreciates a 2% raise in her salary, the money will be used to benefit students.

Cheri Towle, who's held the position since October, was given a two-year extension in her contract at a recent school board meeting. In addition, she was given a 2% raise in her salary. However, Towle didn't feel right about getting more money in a year when budget constraints are forcing a reduction in the number of teaching positions.

So the BDN reports that the Brewer Children's Fund will benefit from the extra money in Towle's paychecks. The fund helps students in need of athletic equipment, clothing, or school supplies. Towle's raise comes to a little over $2,100 a year.

The increase came under fire from School Board member Tammy Smith who felt it was wrong to give the Superintendent a raise while teachers are being laid off. She cast the only dissenting vote against the raise and contract extension.

Towle outlined the budget process in a blog on the School Department's website.