FREDONIA — Former Fredonia Middle School Principal Andy Ludwig is receiving his base salary plus benefits and a lump sum of half his yearly pay, per details in a separation agreement between him and the school district.

The six-page separation agreement, which was approved by the Fredonia Board of Education during its Jan. 9 meeting, was obtained through an open records request. Details were limited at the time of approval and a name wasn’t provided as to who the separation agreement was with. But the board followed by appointing Rachel Badger as interim principal for the middle school, leading to the belief that it dealt with Ludwig.

Per language found within the separation agreement, Ludwig is deemed on administrative leave through June 30, at which time his retirement becomes effective from the district.

A list of terms are set forth in the agreement. One details that Ludwig cannot communicate with district students and staff or any person or entity regarding the circumstances of his employment with the district or the separation of employment.

While Ludwig isn’t permitted to enter the district without the superintendent’s advanced permissions, he can come onto district premises to drive his children or spouse to and from school.

He may also attend school functions or activities for which his children are attending or participating. He can also attend school functions or activities that are generally open to spouses of district employees or to district taxpayers.

The agreement also reads that Ludwig agrees not to initiate, advance or participate in any type of legal action of any nature against the district related to his employment or separation.

Nowhere in the agreement does it mention specifics that led to dismissal of Ludwig other than stating that “certain issues have arisen regarding his employment with the district.”

Ludwig is eligible to receive coverage from the district’s health insurance program through and including June 30. He’ll also receive the retirement stipend set forth in Article 10 of the collective bargaining agreement between the district and Fredonia Administrator’s Association.

Ludwig also agrees that he will not at any time in the future apply for employment with the district, and he and the Administrator’s Association agree that the district has no obligation to consider or hire him for employment with the district anytime in the future.

During the 2017 pay year, Ludwig received $117,203. Badger, who was elementary principal at West Seneca Schools, has been receiving $425 a day since she was appointed Jan. 9.