What is a reduction in force (RIF) and who does it affect?
A RIF occurs when a district separates a teacher from employment for reasons associated with changes in district finances or demographics. Districts can terminate the employment of probationary contract teachers and those employees who serve at-will, such as paraprofessionals, without giving the employee a due process-type hearing. Term and continuing contract teachers have a right to a hearing to challenge a district’s purported reasons for the RIF, or the resulting implementation of the RIF policy. When do RIFs occur? Although a reduction in force (RIF) usually occurs in March or April, concurrently with other contract nonrenewals, a RIF may be instituted at any time. A school district may not start the process until the end of May or June, when they finally get a hard look at finances and demographics. What should you do if a RIF is announced in your area? The teacher(s) ultimately designated for separation from employment may have several options. Most importantly, remember that an
Related Questions
- With so many teachers in my state experiencing layoffs, usually called a RIF, Reduction in Force, do I have any chance at a job next year?
- How much does the additional service credit based on performance affect the outcome of a reduction in force?
- When an activity is undergoing a reduction in force (RIF), is it required to offer VSIP?
