Kingsport City Schools Board Approves New Contract for Superintendent Hampton

The Kingsport Superintendent of Schools, Chris Hampton, will commence a new four-year contract as of June 1, 2024, set to end May 31, 2028. The contract was approved at the Kingsport City Schools Board of Education meeting by unanimous vote on April 9. Hampton’s base salary has been confirmed at $189,000 with the opportunity for cost-of-living increases and further raises based on performance.

Contract Details

The contract in question is valid for 48 months from the commencement date, with a base pay amounting to $189,000 per year. This sum is exclusive of the annual cost-of-living raise. Furthermore, Hampton will qualify for a 2% increase augmenting his base salary each July 1. The increment is connected to performance pay adjustments, determined by a cumulative index of six measures. This arrangement is an elevation from his original contract, which was approved on March 13, 2023, and offered a base pay of $180,000.

In addition to his base salary, Hampton will receive an auto allowance of $630 biweekly and a home office allowance totaling $288.75 every two weeks. The superintendent will also get a 3% contribution, calculated on the basis of his base pay and the aforementioned allowances, made into his Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) account.

Prior to Superintendentship

Prior to his role as superintendent, Hampton served as the principal of Dobyns-Bennett High School. His original contract was set to start on April 1, 2023, and end on June 30, 2027. Under that contract, the previous stipulations for his auto allowance and home office allowance were $600 and $275, respectively, and included the same 3% contribution to his TCRS account.

Tuition Rates and Student Recognition

At the same meeting in which Hampton’s contract was approved, the board also voted to cut tuition rates for all Tennessee students from outside the school district to $1,000 a year. Additionally, tuition for children of Kingsport City Schools or city government employees will stand at $500 a year. Furthermore, the board recognized the achievements of a selection of music students from Dobyns-Bennett High School, who attained All-State distinctions in band, choir, and orchestra.

Outstanding Assistant Principal Honored

The board also honored Assistant Principal Melissa Seaver from John Sevier Middle School. Seaver was recognized for being named the 2024 Tennessee National Outstanding Assistant Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).

New Approvals

Several other significant decisions were made. The board approved a proposal to buy a 3D virtual dissection table for Dobyns-Bennett High School to facilitate more interactive learning opportunities. Moreover, a contract was awarded for a customized student benchmark assessment program with Instructure Inc., expected to assist educators in their instructional planning.

Closing the Meeting

The meeting was concluded with Kennedy Elementary School students Abel and Boone Marsh leading the board in the Pledge of Allegiance. The two kindergarteners were encouraged by Assistant Superintendent Andy True to answer several questions before the pledge.

About the Superintendent

Chris Hampton has served Kingsport City Schools honorably. As principal of Dobyns-Bennett High School preceding his superintendent role, he has proven himself dedicated to improving educational standards and outcomes for all students in the district. The board’s unanimous approval of his new contract solidifies their confidence in his capabilities, and the increased compensation is a testament to his competence and commitment.