Lehighton Area School District is proposing a new five-year contract for Superintendent Jason Moser that would keep him in the role through June 2030.

Under the proposed agreement, to be voted on in two weeks, Moser’s existing contract — originally set to run through June 2028 — would be terminated and replaced with a new one effective Oct. 28.

The new deal establishes a term ending June 30, 2030, with Moser’s annual base salary set at $144,200 for 2025-26. His salary would rise to $148,887 in 2026-27, $153,725 in 2027-28, $158,721 in 2028-29 and $163,879 in 2029-30. Each increase depends on him receiving at least a satisfactory or proficient evaluation from the board.

The agreement also allows the board, at its discretion, to grant additional salary increases or merit-based bonuses.

During Monday night’s workshop, board President Joy Beers said the goal with the new five-year contract is to strengthen Moser’s job security and remove an early termination option that exists in his current deal.

“Right now there’s a clause in there that he can be removed without cause, even if he does nothing wrong,” Beers said. “We want to give him a five-year contract and remove that escape clause, so he would have to actually make a mistake to be removed from his position.”

Other terms

In addition to salary, Moser would continue to receive benefits outlined in the district’s administrative compensation plan, including 12 sick days and 35 vacation days per year. He may carry over up to five unused vacation days annually and receive payment for up to five more.

The contract provides reimbursement for professional development and travel, along with dues for professional organizations such as the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators and Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials.

The district would also pay a $50 monthly cellphone stipend in two semiannual installments and cover costs for memberships in community groups such as Rotary or the Chamber of Commerce when Moser represents the district.

Tuition and fees for approved graduate or continuing education programs would be reimbursed at 100%.

Moser’s annual evaluations would continue to be conducted in executive session by the board no later than June 30 of each year. His performance will be assessed against objective performance standards agreed upon by both parties and publicly posted on the district’s website. Those standards include goals related to academic achievement, transparency in communication, professional development and alignment between district and board goals.

First pact

Moser was first hired in Lehighton in November 2024.

His base salary was $140,000 for the first year. Under that contract, LASD would have increased his salary to $142,240 in 2025-26 and $151,635 in 2027-28.

“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,” Beers said when discussing a raise for Moser in August.

Board member 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.”