The Bibb County School Board has voted to buy out Superintendent Romain Dallemand.

The board voted 7-1 Monday and agreed to pay Dallemand a lump sum of $350,000. Dallemand took office in 2011 and ignited controversies when he announced plans to close schools, cut teacher staffs, teach Mandarin to all students and institute a year-round school calendar.

Part of the severance package includes a two-page recommendation letter — which is signed by four members of the board.

After receiving payment, Dallemand will no longer be employed as superintendent, but is required to help facilitate the transition to a new superintendent through June 30.

The agreement also requires the board to pay Dallemand's attorney fees in three lawsuits pending against him and the district in Bibb County Superior Court.

Tags: Bibb County Schools, Romain Dallemand