A colleague told me about a first year who was fired mid year. When asked why, she said the principal did not give her a reason. The teacher in question was also not on a success plan and reported not having any indication her position was in danger.
I asked the district the following questions:
Q: How can a teacher be let go after the 97-day probationary period?
A: There is no 97-day probation anymore. After SB 736, the probation period is 196 days.
Q: If a teacher makes it to year two since the entire first year is probation, then do they get to finish the year or can they be fired at anytime?
A: Teachers not on probation may be fired for good cause even in the middle of a contract. They would have a right to a due process hearing on the termination if they request it.
Q: Why are principals not required to give a reason when dismissing teachers?
A: During the probation year, teachers may be terminated with or without cause. If they can be terminated without cause, there is no requirement for principals to give a reason. Most principals do give a reason, but they don’t have to do so.
Could you imagine your child getting a F and then not being told why they got it. Adults should do what’s right even if it is not easy. If a teacher is going to be fired, something I don’t think should happen until they have been told what their issues are and had an opportunity to improve, they should be at least told why.
Shouldn’t our district do the right thing even if it is hard? If we would have been doing things that way all along we might not be where we find ourselves.
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