LPS Board of Education discusses superintendent search

The Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education expects to have an interim superintendent named in January.

Board President Bob Rauner shared the update at the board's meeting Tuesday night.

Current superintendent Paul Gausman announced his retirement last week. He said his time at LPS was special.

“Some have said that the public schools are under great challenge right now, and I suspect that's got some truth to it, but I know that Lincoln Public Schools have a bright future ahead due to leaders at all levels of this organization who will continue to focus on student needs,” Gausman said at the board meeting.

Gausman received an annual salary of $333,720 starting in the 2023-24 school year. The board updated his contract in June 2023 for a three-year term ending in June 2026. Gausman's new contract for his retirement and resignation states he'll continue to get that pay until his retirement. He will also receive $83,430 in separation payment - $70,000 will got to the LPS Nonelective Retirement Plan and $13,430 will go to the LPS Deferred Compensation Plan.

Retirement and Resignation Agreement Paul Gausman

Rauner thanked Gausman for his time as superintendent. He said the district is equipped for the transition.

“We have a highly experienced team of associate superintendents, directors, administrators and staff to keep us progressing and limiting the disruption until we consider next steps at our future board meetings,” Rauner said.

Gausman steps down as superintendent on Dec. 27 and will take on a consulting role as superintendent emeritus until the end of June. Liz Standish, the associate superintendent for business affairs, will take over superintendent duties until an interim is named.

Board members plan to share more details about the search for a longtime hire at their next meeting in January.