2 Investigators: Sick, Vacation Payouts Add Up For Former CPS Employees

February 2, 2012 12:00 AM " CHICAGO (CBS) — A crackdown is under way to stop a very expensive — yet legal — perk that has been enjoyed by employees at some city agencies.

CBS 2′s Dave Savini has been investigating the high cost of unused sick and vacation time at Chicago Public Schools (CPS). And now Mayor Rahm Emanuel has ordered an immediate halt of this type of payout for non-union employees, and ultimately, he wants the perk eliminated across the board.

Arne Duncan, the former CEO of CPS, was paid $50,296.77 when he left the school system to become President Obama’s secretary of education.

Barbara Eason-Watkins, former chief education officer, walked away with $159,848.54.

Both cashed in unused sick or vacation time — a jackpot for CPS administrators and teachers who quit or retire.

CPS records obtained by the 2 Investigators show a whopping $89 million has been paid out for this perk in the last three years alone. At least 203 employees received payouts of $80,000 or more.

Jitu Brown, a local school council leader, says what CBS 2 uncovered should be spent on crumbling, cash-strapped schools.

“It’s horribly sad, but I’m not surprised,” he says "

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