Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) board members formally approved a contract with Interim Superintendent Jim Pavelka Monday.

The contract terms designate Monday, October 21 as Pavelka's official start date. For the first 30 days of his contract, Pavelka will be paid at a "daily rate equivalent to the highest paid teacher (total compensation less FICA) in the district." That amount equals $683 per day, according to contract documents. The agreement describes Pavelka as an at-will employee and allows either TCAPS or Pavelka to terminate the contract with 30 days' notice. An ending date for Pavelka's service is not specified.

After Pavelka's first month on the job, he and board members will negotiate a new daily compensation amount. If either fails to agree on a rate, they can trigger the termination clause. For the following 30 days, Pavelka would receive a daily compensation rate equal to that of former Superintendent Ann Cardon, or $1,141 per day. The contract also indemnifies and holds harmless Pavelka for any and all claims and liabilities related to his performance of duties, and includes stipends for mileage and business expenses.