District issues Phase One RIF notifications; Board approves retroactive PERS critical designation

Human Resources Director Michelle "Chelle" Wright outlined Phase One of the district's Reduction in Force (RIF), which prioritized eliminating vacant positions to reduce impact on active staff. Notifications were issued June 9; executed eliminations included 27 teacher vacancies, four critical‑needs positions and 25 filled full‑time positions, leaving 20 vacancies and 13 active critical‑needs teachers in place. Administrative and support reductions included several vacant administrative and support roles.

At the same meeting the Board unanimously approved a retroactive Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) critical labor shortage designation effective May 20, 2026, covering Early Childhood Teacher (EC/Pre‑K)/ECSE, Secondary CTE, Secondary ELA, Speech Therapist/Language Pathologist, and Bus Driver positions. The designation was presented as a contingency to retain employees in hard‑to‑fill roles during and after the RIF process and to prevent potential salary repayment liabilities.

Board members discussed the RIF timelines and the district's adherence to bargaining-unit contracts and state criteria. Trustees asked staff to provide additional details on vacancy counts, rehiring processes and supports for affected students and staff at future meetings.