Durham schools superintendent reprimanded for private use of bus
The Durham Public Schools Board of Education on Thursday reprimanded Superintendent Eric Becoats for using a school bus and driver last month to take his friends and family to private events, including a trip to The Streets at Southpoint.
Posted — UpdatedBecoats paid for the trip in full, but the board said his actions violate policy.
"School employees and, in particular, school leaders, must not use public resources for private benefit," the board said in a news release. "The board has issued a letter of reprimand to Dr. Becoats that explains the board's serious concern about this issue."
Becoats also released a statement Thursday, apologizing for his mistake.
"After the use of the activity bus on the contracted dates, I was informed of the local and state policy. I apologize for my mistake," he said. "As superintendent, I will continue to build on the progress that we have made in the district. Additional work remains to be accomplished and I look forward to completing the task with our Board of Education, staff, families and community."
Hired in April 2010, Becoats is under contract until June 30, 2016 and is paid $195,700 annually. He also receives $600 a month for in-county travel expenses.
Becoats earned his bachelor’s degree in business and accounting from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He earned a master’s degree in financial planning from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland and an educational leadership doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
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