AVERY COUNTY, N.C. — A western North Carolina school district no longer has a superintendent as of Thursday.
The board for Avery County Schools confirmed to WCNC Charlotte it had parted ways with Dan Brigman. The separation agreement included a reduced full-contract buyout of $300,000 for Brigman along with all normal payouts, with funds sourced from one-time non-recurring monies in the district's local fund balance.
For now, the duties of the superintendent will be handled by the district's central office directors until the school board can appoint an interim superintendent.
The board notes details about personnel matters are confidential and has asked parents and staff to understand that the district and board members can't discuss said matters.
Board vice chair Linda Webb shared this statement with WCNC Charlotte on Friday:
Following prolonged discussions, the Avery County Board of Education has unanimously agreed to end Superintendent Dr. Brigman's contract via buyout, considering it the most beneficial approach for the community, students, educators and families in Avery County. It is time to progress. Given the significant challenges our county has encountered, prioritizing our students' needs is essential.
Brigman's separation comes as Avery County recovers from the devastation wrought by Helene in late September. The hurricane caused widespread flooding and took out power across the High Country. Avery County Schools is set to welcome back students on Wednesday, Nov. 6 on a two-hour delay. A full return-to-school schedule was shared on the district's Facebook page.
The separation also comes as district leaders faced scrutiny over staff changes in April 2024. The demands for answers by parents even canceled talks about the school district's budget at one point.
WCNC Charlotte has requested further comment from Brigman. This story will be updated if a response is provided.
Contact Vanessa Ruffes at vruffes@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.