Richfield School Board approves resolution placing five teachers on unrequested leave amid budget uncertainty

The Richfield School Board voted unanimously April 20 to approve a resolution discontinuing five teaching contracts and placing those staff on unrequested leave of absence effective at the end of the school year, administration announced.

District administrator Mr. Holy presented the resolution, saying the changes are driven by budgetary decisions rather than performance. "These are all based on budgetary decisions, not related to performance in any way," he said. Board members asked for timelines and clarifications about recall rights; administration said affected teachers would begin leave at the end of the school year, retain rights to recall, and could be offered part‑ or full‑time openings should budget or staffing needs later permit.

Director Kirk Spencer moved the resolution and Director Paula Cole seconded it. In a roll call, Directors Cole, Spencer, Liss, Tomkins and Chair Eric Carter voted in favor and the motion passed.

Superintendent Steve Yianowski and staff framed the action as part of conservative budget planning amid ongoing state funding uncertainty. Yianowski told the board staff would continue to monitor openings and reassignments over the summer and said recalled teachers would be considered for positions for which they are licensed.

The board took the vote after a public presentation and discussion; no public comment specific to this personnel item is reflected in the record. The district will provide affected employees with recall information and will report back to the board if positions are reopened or if any of the placed teachers are rehired.

The resolution passed as part of the meeting’s new business segment; the board then accepted several donations and moved into a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategy under Minnesota statute.