GISD outlines staffing plan as sixth graders move to new GMS campus

Gadsden Independent School District administrators briefed trustees on staffing needs tied to the planned sixth-grade academy at the new Gadsden Middle School campus.

Human resources and associate superintendent staff said eight middle-school teaching positions are needed and will be filled internally using the district's usual posting and selection process. Eleven elementary positions that become vacant when sixth graders shift will be reallocated according to policy and the collective bargaining agreement, primarily using seniority and qualifications.

Staff told the board that more than half of potentially impacted teachers already hold the middle-school endorsements required, and the district will offer support programs and alternative licensure pathways (including LEAP and university cohorts) for teachers who need endorsements. The district plans to work with NMSU and other partners to create cohorts for bilingual and other endorsements and provide two years for staff to obtain certifications when appropriate.

Board members asked about endorsement availability and supports; staff said they have scheduled meetings with interested teachers and principals to answer questions and will provide regular updates.