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Board approves hires, classified changes and accepts certified retirement; denies immediate release for counselor
Summary
The board approved multiple certified and classified hires, classified resignations and retirements, an increase in hours for two aides, and accepted a certified retirement notice from Maria Sexton with policy caveats. The board declined to release a counselor from her 2025-26 contract unless a replacement is found.
The Douglas Unified School District Governing Board approved a slate of personnel actions including certified hires, classified hires, internal classified transfers, and increases in hours for instructional staff. The board also accepted retirement letters and approved classified resignations presented during the meeting.
Certified and classified hires: Superintendent Maritza Samaniego presented the certified hires (including 20 new "first century" teachers funded from grant funds, emergency substitutes and other classroom hires) and the classified hires (including parent-liaison and substitute campus security positions). Board motions to approve the certified and classified hires passed by roll-call votes.
Increases in hours and instructional support: The board approved an increase in hours for two instructional aides, noting a rise in demand for services for students with special education needs. Board members and staff discussed the growing workload for ESS instructional aides (ESSIAs) and said the district is reviewing caseloads and the salary schedule for those positions.
Retirement and policy implications: The board accepted a certified retirement letter from Maria Sexton, with staff noting the district policy GCQE requires notice by March 1 of the preceding year. Staff warned that late notice may change how the retirement payout is processed under policy GCCA; the board voted to accept the retirement and to consider payout timing consistent with policy.
Counselor contract release: After convening in executive session under ARS 38-431.03(A)(1) to consider a personnel contract matter, the board returned to public session and voted not to release counselor Cindy Littlejohn from her 2025-26 contract. The motion included a provision that the board would revisit the request if the district finds a suitable replacement.
Votes and next steps: Multiple motions to approve hires, resignations, and increases in hours were made and carried by roll-call votes during the meeting. Staff said vacancies remain in some positions and that the district is prioritizing required roles when hiring.
Why this matters: The personnel decisions affect classroom staffing, special-education supports and campus safety; the board also clarified how late retirement notices are processed under district policy, and preserved the district's discretion regarding contract releases pending replacement.
