UPDATE: Although the board is still in talks with Superintendent Richard Autry over the terms of a one-year extension to the superintendent's contract, Autry has turned down the cost of living increase that was included in his contract. According to school board Chairman Jim McBrayer, the cost of living increase was also 5 percent of his annual salary, or $8,750.  The Superintendent also recieves step increases set by the state in addition to cost of living. This year, however, step increases have been frozen again for Georgia educators. 

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IN BRIEF: After long discussion and a split vote, the Rockdale County Board of Education approved a 5 percent performance bonus for Superintendent Richard Autry, who completed his first year as the head of Rockdale County Public Schools, and agreed to negotiate the terms of a one-year extention of Autry's contract.

Four members of the board voted for the bonus - Tony Dowdy, Jim McBrayer, Wales Barksdale, Mandy North; one member voted against it - Sharron Pharr. Member Katrina Young abstained from voting for the bonus. Member Brad Smith was not present.

Autry currently has an annual salary of $175,000. Five percent would be $8,750. Board attorney Jack Lance said the board felt Autry had met the performance goals set out in his contract.