Superintendent Susan Purser has elected to forgo a built-in salary increase in her contract so the money can be used in the school system.

The Moore County Board of Education approved the revision to her contract Monday night during its monthly meeting. The revision would eliminate an automatic $2,500 salary increase for the 2009-2010 school year.

Purser's contract calls for her to be paid $152,000 next year.

According to board member Susan Black, who made the motion to approve the revision, Purser "recognized the tough economic times" and thought the money could be used elsewhere in the school system.

"I really appreciate Dr. Purser's sensitivity to this subject, because she absolutely deserves the money for the work she has done," said Black.

Last month, the board unanimously approved a one-year extension on Purser's contract after completing her annual evaluation. The extension will keep Purser within the school system through the 2012-2013 school year.

In other business, Purser reported that she had no new information on the state budget. About two-thirds of the school system's budget comes from the state.

House and Senate negotiators are still trying to hammer out a compromise budget in Raleigh. The state is operating on a temporary spending plan until the legislature adopts a budget.

Deputy Superintendent Larry Upchurch also updated the board on several bond projects under way around the county, including the construction of two new schools, West Pine Elementary School and Crains Creek Middle School. He also reported on new classroom additions at four elementary schools, Highfalls, Robbins, Sandhills Farmlife and West Moore, as well as additions to athletic complexes.

Moore County voters approved a $54 million bond issue in 2007 to fund a 12-year construction plan for the school system.

"I hope those who have supported the bond project are excited as I am," Upchurch said. "We did this project at the right time."

Contact Jonathan Summey at 693-2482.