SUGAR LAND, Texas — Outgoing Fort Bend Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Christie Whitbeck will receive a hefty payout as part of her voluntary retirement agreement approved earlier this month. According to the document obtained by KHOU 11 News, she'll get a total of $352,024.92.
The first payout of $177,107 comes in two payments this month.
Whitbeck will then serve as superintendent emeritus until June 30, 2024 when she'll be paid another $174,917. Her duties will include advising the board of trustees and interim or new superintendent to ensure a smooth transition.
Whitbeck took over the lead role at FBISD, one of the biggest school districts in Texas, in October 2021.
"I am very proud of the work we have accomplished over the past few years," Whitbeck said. "I am most proud of working to help our district develop more of a culture of kindness and caring. The progress we have made is very evident as I visit campuses."
She also cited her work to reduce the budget, pass a major bond, raise pay for teachers and staff and add security guards to elementary schools.
“I have been blessed to work with amazing people in Fort Bend ISD. It has been my pleasure to serve the community and the children of this exemplary district. With the help of many talented staff, I feel I am leaving FBISD better than I found it, and for that, I am very proud. The future is bright for Fort Bend.”
Board President Judy Dae did not share how many candidates applied for the job, and wouldn't comment on Dr. Whitbeck's retirement calling it a personnel matter.
"I think what we’re doing is the best for the district, and I do believe Dr. Smith is the perfect person to lead the district, and I’m asking for the community to support Dr. Smith and to support our district for the best interest of our kids, teachers and the staff," Dae said after the meeting.
FBISD approves sole finalist for superintendent
On Friday, the Fort Bend Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved Dr. Marc Smith as the sole finalist for the district's search for a new superintendent Friday morning.
Smith is no stranger to Fort Bend ISD, having served as assistant superintendent in the district from 2007 to 2012, among other roles.
"Fort Bend ISD has played such an instrumental role in my development as a leader and in my journey as being a superintendent in a couple of different districts now," Smith said. "I'm excited to be able to come back and serve."
He previously served as superintendent to Marshall ISD and Duncanville ISD.
Dae did not share how many candidates applied for the job, which was posted on Dec. 5, according to the district.