New York City taxpayers are footing a $192,374 annual salary for an administrator whose school never opened its doors β a revelation that’s ignited fresh scrutiny of the Department of Education’s spending and hiring practices.
Caleb Haraguchi-Combs, 33, was promoted from assistant principal to lead the proposed Next Generation Technology High School in January 2026, receiving a $50,414 raise. But when Chancellor Kamar Samuels withdrew the controversial AI-focused school proposal in April following parent and official opposition, Haraguchi-Combs’ principal-level compensation remained intact.
Merit Admissions and AI Focus Drew Fire
The shelved Lower Manhattan school faced two primary objections: its merit-based admissions process, which critics argued could worsen racial disparities, and concerns about integrating artificial intelligence into education. Official records show the proposal was pulled before an April 29 vote, though officials suggested it might be revisited later.
While similar administrators typically return to assistant principal roles when proposals fail, Haraguchi-Combs remains on payroll as a “project director” developing new proposals. A Department of Education spokesperson told the New York Post he’s supporting in-progress initiatives, but an anonymous department source questioned the arrangement’s appropriateness.
Whistleblower Letter Surfaces Concerns
The controversy gained traction after anonymous Manhattan principals raised flags in an October letter calling for investigation into Superintendent Gary Beidleman. The letter highlighted broader concerns about district management decisions, with Haraguchi-Combs’ ongoing compensation serving as a flashpoint example.
Critics argue the situation epitomizes bureaucratic bloat, with one education watchdog noting, “When a project gets canceled, the funding should follow suit β not continue indefinitely as a patronage position.” The DOE maintains Haraguchi-Combs is performing valuable work, but has not detailed specific projects or metrics for his current role.
Source: www.americanthinker.com β https://www.americanthinker.com/blog/2026/11/nyc-pays-nearly-200k-to-administrator-of-school-that-never-opened/