Irving, Texas. December 5, 2012 –

The Irving ISD has hired its first in-house attorney to represent the Superintendent, designated staff and the Board of Trustees. Until now the district has been using out of district legal counsel. Last night the Board was introduced to Bertha Bailey Whatley, the lone finalist for the position.

Ms. Bailey is currently the Chief Legal Counsel for Fort Worth ISD. Her anticipated start date with Irving ISD is January 7, 2013 and the agreed annual salary for the position of Attorney will be $141,000. Ms. Bailey accepted this position as an at-will employee which means the Board of Trustees does not have to formally vote to approve the hire.