Board adopts GCQA reduction-in-force policy; superintendent explains criteria and recall language

The Bedford School Board on March 10 adopted draft policy GCQA, the district’s reduction-in-force (RIF) policy for instructional staff. Superintendent Mike Fournier said the policy separates McKelvey and Lurgio as distinct units for potential staffing reductions, clarifies the superintendent’s role in implementing reductions after the board sets staffing numbers, and establishes multi-factor criteria to guide reductions.

Why it matters: GCQA governs how the district will make staffing decisions if reductions become necessary. The policy’s criteria determine whether seniority is determinative or whether qualifications, performance and disciplinary history are considered first.

Policy highlights and discussion

Superintendent Fournier told the board the district used NHSBA language as a starting point and then added Bedford-specific provisions. He described the policy’s main elements:

- Decision authority: Once the board approves staffing numbers in the budget, the superintendent executes the reductions. - Unit classification: The policy enumerates certified staff groupings (for example, grades 5–6 together, 7–8 together) and includes asterisks for district-specific wording to keep McKelvey and Lurgio separate where intended. - Criteria for reductions: The policy lists factors to be considered—disciplinary history, performance qualifications, certifications and finally seniority if other factors are equal. Board members discussed whether performance or disciplinary history should be ranked higher; members noted disciplinary records are relatively uncommon but may signal deeper issues. - Recall/rehire language: The previous district policy required bringing back reduced staff within two years; the new language removes the mandatory two-year rehiring requirement and instead creates discretionary flexibility about recall/rehire timelines.

Superintendent Fournier said the district currently believes McKelvey will not require a RIF because staff reassignments resolved a previously anticipated need, but Riddle Brook may still have two positions reduced if openings for reassignment do not arise.

Vote and next steps

The board moved and seconded to accept GCQA as presented and voted in favor. Superintendent Fournier said HR would apply the policy’s factors if staff reductions become necessary and would work with union leadership on implementation details and timelines. The board noted that individual RIF outcomes remain contingent on actual openings and operational decisions.

Ending

The policy is now adopted and in force; HR will apply the policy if and when reductions are required and report back with any required implementation steps.