Deal Gets OK’d

The final price tag for a federal discrimination judgment against the Richmond County Board of Education is $435,000.

The school board approved the negotiated settlement offer with Ellen Cauthen on Tuesday night after a nearly hourlong closed-door meeting. A jury found that Dr. Cauthen, a former school administrator, who is white, was transferred illegally based on her race.

School board attorney Pete Fletcher, who negotiated the settlement on behalf of the board, broke down the $435,000 for board members.

About $31,000 will cover court costs, he said. The settlement also stipulates that $25,000 be given to Laney High School to establish a scholarship fund for students.

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