Board approves proposed unrequested leaves of absence for eight teachers

The Brainerd School Board voted to approve a resolution proposing unrequested leaves of absence without pay for eight teachers, effective at the close of the 2024–25 school year on June 30, 2025.

Superintendent Grant read the proposed resolution to place the following teachers on unrequested leave of absence: Garth Askergaard, Allison Bullard, Madeline Hastings, Nedra Hedlund, Claire Horn, Bobby Crutchin, Bethany Mauss and Bridal Nyberg. The resolution cited "financial limitations and discontinuance of position" as the grounds for the proposed placements and referenced the statutory and contractual process described in the board packet.

The motion to propose placement on unrequested leave of absence passed after a roll-call vote. Board members recorded affirmative votes during roll call: D. J. Donnellinger, Stephanie Ederman, Randy Heidman, Sarah Spear, John Ward and Michelle Brooken each answered yes on the record. The superintendent and human-resources staff noted that the action follows statutory notice requirements; the resolution sets an opportunity for hearing if requested by the affected employees.

Board members asked questions about recall rights, seniority and whether retirements or reassignments could alter the list; staff confirmed openings could change recall order and that affected staff would be eligible to reapply for posted positions. The superintendent noted affected employees will receive written notice and that placement on the unrequested leave list is subject to applicable statute and master agreement provisions.

The board’s action at the meeting is a formal step in the statutory unrequested leave process; staff said additional administrative steps and notices will follow as required by law.