Lehighton Area School District’s board of directors voted to amend Superintendent Jason Moser’s contract Monday, granting higher base salary increases over the next three years than originally outlined in his November 2024 agreement.

The amendment changes Moser’s contract to raise his base salary to $144,200 on July 1, 2025; $148,887 on July 1, 2026; and $153,725 on July 1, 2027. His contract runs through June 30, 2028.

The increases are contingent on Moser receiving at least a satisfactory or proficient evaluation in the prior school year. If he receives less than a satisfactory or proficient rating, he will not receive the increase for that year.

In all other respects, the original agreement remains in effect.

“At the end of the school year, the board reviewed his performance, and during an executive session, a board member suggested we give him a raise greater than what was in his contract, and a majority agreed,” Board President Joy Beers said. “That was a couple of months ago, and it sometimes takes time to put these things into motion. I think we’re fairly pleased with Jason’s work, especially the fact that he’s so student-centered and very much interested in student outcomes, opportunities and safety.”

Director Duane Dellecker added, “Jason has done a deep dive into everything school related, and I think he’s done an outstanding job in taking this district forward.”

Moser’s original Nov. 18, 2024, agreement set his base salary at $140,000 for the first year, prorated to his start date, with subsequent increases contingent on satisfactory evaluations. That schedule would have increased his salary to $142,240 in 2025-26 and $151,635 in 2027-28.

During the 2025-26 school year, the base salary adjustment amounts to 3%. The adjustments for 2026-27 and 2027-28 represent 3.25% increases for each year.

Moser’s original contract also provides a comprehensive benefits package, including professional development opportunities, 35 days of vacation annually, reimbursement for travel and professional memberships, and a $50 monthly cellphone stipend.

His performance is to be reviewed annually by the board based on objective standards, including academic achievement, student growth and financial management.

Director Barbara Bowes voiced reservations about the structure of the increase and was the lone board member to vote against it.

“I was not opposed to giving him an extra merit-based bonus,” Bowes said. “I just didn’t want it added to his base salary so it would keep growing with the percentage increases every year. I do agree he’s done a really great job, but I was against that part.

“I may have been less opposed if we had not reduced our revenue (through a property tax decrease) — but we did.”