Bedford calls teachers back from layoffs
5/26/2011TEMPERANCE — Bedford Public Schools Thursday began calling back 48 teachers from layoff status as administrators worked through the initial phase of staffing for the 2011-12 school year.
Howard Schwager, assistant superintendent of human resources and labor discussions, said the recalls affect nearly half of the 103 teachers recently given pink slips. The layoffs allowed the district to work through the bumping process in the teacher’s contract to get to certified positions it wants to eliminate.
Mr. Schwager said the central administration office has had discussions on bringing back additional teachers next week, and told the board of education Thursday night during a meeting that they hope to recall 20 or more teachers by June 1.
That leaves about 35 teachers still slated to be laid off. School officials said 13 teachers issued notices earlier this year because of the closure of Smith Road Elementary likely will not have jobs with the district in September.
The district is attempting to cut about $3.7 million from the budget to avoid going into deficit spending. The board must approved a spending plan by June 30.