School board approves nonrenewal of multiple probationary teacher contracts

The Grand Rapids Public Schools board voted to approve a resolution to terminate or not renew the teaching contracts of multiple probationary teachers, citing the statutory process outlined in Minnesota Statute 122A.40 subdivision 5.

Casey, a district staff member presenting the item, told the board the process is an annual statutory procedure and that, although there is no district budget reduction target this year, some nonrenewals are required because of licensure ("lensure") and probationary decisions. "This is an annual process as defined in statute 122A40 subdivision 5," Casey told the board, and confirmed that staff and administrators had been in contact with affected teachers; official notifications were sent by human resources the Thursday before the district’s break.

Casey read the list of teachers included in the nonrenewal action: Adrienne Karstensen; Katie Christensen; Ryan Christensen; Wendy Gray; Jordan Helerude; Anne Hutner; Amber Kongjord; Tiffany Morgan; Joseph Rabers; Sel Rutder; Aaron Saudi (partial non-renewal of 0.4 FTE); Alice Saxton; Sarah Shainos; Peter Tine; Jessica Tunbridge; Victoria Vandershoff; Simon Wilson; Amanda Wright; and Emma Yncan. The board asked clarifying questions about notification timing and methods; Casey said email notifications were sent at the close of the school day and that union leadership had been informed to prepare for questions.

After a motion and second, the board approved the nonrenewals by voice vote. Julie called roll in a voice vote and each board member voted yes.

The district said affected positions will be posted and that many staff are expected to return to the district next year.