But they will only be in power until December, which means the Republican-controlled board has voted for him to resign.
Lukabaugh received a new contract and a 40% salary increase in July, making him the second-highest paid superintendent in the commonwealth.
His severance package includes one year's salary and more than $200,000 in accrued sick leave.
Many parents who spoke at Tuesday night's meeting expressed anger at the high numbers.
“What's driving this resignation and this deal? Are you so scared of the incoming board majority? Scared of what they'll find? This is a bid to buy your silence. ” one woman asked when the public was given time to speak.
“You are the problem in this community. You are the problem in this community, shame on you,” another woman said into the microphone.
Many were greeted with standing ovations after speaking out about the deal.
“With this funding, we will be able to hire more teachers and support staff,” said another attendee.
Michael Kozak, an education policy expert at Drexel University, says while that number may seem high, it all comes down to the terms of the employment contract.
What's unusual, he says, is the timing.
“New members are taking office on the school board, and the general rule of thumb for school boards is to not take any action one to two months before the new member takes office.” Kozak said.
