GFEA demands compensation for Red River High teachers over rider time grievance

The Grand Forks Public Schools (GFPS) Board meeting on June 16, 2025, focused on significant issues regarding teacher compensation and the implementation of new instructional time policies. The Grand Forks Education Association (GFEA) presented a grievance concerning the compensation for "rider time" and "flex time" that they argue violates the negotiated agreement with the district.

The GFEA is requesting that the district compensate teachers at Schrader South and Valley Middle School for one hour per week at their individual hourly rates, including back pay dating back to April 15, 2025. This request stems from the implementation of flex time, which was introduced as part of the school schedule structure. Additionally, the GFEA submitted a level 4 grievance related to rider time at Red River High School, asserting that all teachers were expected to adhere to this schedule without proper compensation.

The grievance highlights that rider time constitutes an additional period of classroom instruction, which the GFEA believes warrants compensation under Article 8, Section 4 of the negotiated agreement. They argue that the implementation of rider time, which began on August 27, 2024, has placed additional duties on teachers that require appropriate remuneration.

During the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Brenner expressed his disagreement with the GFEA's claims, stating that neither flex time nor rider time qualifies for the additional compensation outlined in the agreement. He noted that the grievance was submitted past the allowable timeframe for such claims.

The GFEA maintains that the demands placed on teachers through these new time structures have increased significantly, impacting their workload and responsibilities. They are seeking a resolution that ensures future instances of rider time and flex time adhere to the terms of the negotiated agreement.

The board's decision on this matter remains pending, with further discussions anticipated as the GFEA continues to advocate for their members' rights and compensation.