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Dubuque board votes to terminate three probationary teaching contracts amid $2M staffing reduction
Summary
The board approved termination of three probationary teaching contracts, citing budgetary reductions (not performance). Affected teachers have three‑year recall rights and the district said union and staff support measures are in place.
The Dubuque Community School District board on April 13 accepted the superintendent’s recommendation to terminate three probationary teaching contracts as part of a staffing reduction estimated to save about $2 million.
Brian Cool (district staff) told the board a recent legal clarification requires roll‑call votes for teacher terminations; he emphasized the board’s determinations were budgetary and "not due to their performance at all." Staff said the district’s reduction process relied largely on attrition (resignations and retirements) and that the affected employees receive three‑year recall rights should positions reopen.
The board moved to accept the superintendent’s recommendations to terminate the probationary contracts of Lauren Fetzer, Lawrence Danner and Adrianna Fleischer effective at the end of the 2025–26 school year. Each motion was approved by roll‑call vote and recorded as carried. Board members and staff expressed regret and noted support from the union and district staff in helping impacted employees through the process, including conversations about benefits, COBRA timelines and potential recall procedures.
The board and district said the decisions were difficult, that staff had personal 1‑on‑1 conversations with affected teachers, and that the district will continue to monitor staffing needs so recalls can occur if openings arise.
Sources: Presentation and motions recorded by Brian Cool and board members at the April 13, 2026 board meeting.
