2026-27 Reduction In Force Communication Hub

Hitchcock ISD Reduction in Force (RIF) Information

Hitchcock ISD is committed to communicating clearly and transparently with our staff, families, and community as we implement a Reduction in Force (RIF) due to program changes. The information below is intended to explain why this is happening, what it means for our district, and how we are supporting employees and protecting the quality of instruction for our students.

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Overview of the RIF

Hitchcock ISD is implementing a RIF to address past budget imbalances that continue to affect district operations. Without adjustments to our programs and staffing model, the district was projected to have a budget deficit of approximately $1.5 million for the 2026–2027 school year. Under this administration, personnel and program expenditures will not exceed projected revenue. Implementing a RIF due to a program change allows Hitchcock ISD to address budget imbalances, streamline operations, and ensure long-term fiscal health.

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Board Action and Program Change

On February 9, 2026, during a Special Called Meeting, the Board of Trustees approved two key resolutions:

• A resolution declaring a Reduction in Force due to program change, formally establishing the need to reduce staff to address operational efficiency and program changes and eliminate the projected $1.5 million deficit.
• A resolution identifying affected employment areas, specifying the departments and grade levels that will be impacted by the RIF.

Under Board Policy DFFB(LOCAL), a “program change” can include reorganization of departments, declining enrollment, or changes in the district’s financial resources. For Hitchcock ISD, program changes include increasing secondary student–teacher ratios from 24:1 to at least 29:1 and reorganizing academic and extra‑curricular programs.

On February 23, 2026, the Board of Trustees approved the administration’s specific recommendations for positions affected by the Reduction in Force. Following this action, employees whose roles are impacted will receive individual notification from the district by March 6, along with information about timelines, available supports, and applicable rights under district policy and state law.

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How RIF Decisions Are Made

The RIF identifies employment areas, not specific individuals. For term‑contract employees, campus principals apply criteria outlined in Policy DFFB(LOCAL) to make nonrenewal recommendations. The district prioritizes objective criteria to maintain high‑quality instruction, including:

• Professional performance appraisals and evaluations.
• Specialized certifications and dual‑credit credentials.
• The specific educational needs of students and the district.

Before finalizing any nonrenewals, the district will consider affected employees for any open positions for which they are qualified.

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Timeline for the RIF Process

To provide clarity for staff and the community, Hitchcock ISD is following a defined timeline:

• February 9: The Board declared the RIF and identified affected areas.
• February 23: The Board will meet to approve the proposed list of at‑will, probationary, and term‑contract nonrenewals.
• By March 6: All affected employees will receive formal written notification.

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Impact on Academics and Students

Our primary goal is to protect the quality of instruction for Hitchcock ISD students. While some secondary class size ratios will increase as part of the program changes, the RIF is being applied in a targeted way so the district can continue to fund core academic programs without negatively impacting learning. We are working to minimize disruption to students and to maintain strong teaching and learning environments in every classroom.

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Connection to VATRE and Four‑Day Week

The Voter‑Approved Tax Ratification Election (VATRE) would have provided additional local revenue to support personnel and programs, including salaries, stipends, employee insurance, and maintaining lower class sizes. Because the VATRE did not pass, the district did not receive that additional funding and must take more aggressive cost‑cutting steps, including a RIF, to balance the budget.

The transition to a modified four‑day week is a separate decision. It is focused on improving teacher recruitment and retention during a statewide educator shortage. Benefits of a four‑day week include improved staff and student morale and a more competitive position for Hitchcock ISD in hiring and retaining high‑quality educators. It is not a goal or outcome of the RIF.

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Employee Rights and Protections

All reductions are being carried out in a transparent, consistent, and legally compliant manner in accordance with Board Policy DFFB(LOCAL) and applicable law. Affected employees will receive formal written notice. Depending on their contract type, employees may have the right to request a hearing. The district is committed to treating all employees with dignity and respect throughout this process.

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Questions, Communication, and Anonymous Feedback

Hitchcock ISD is committed to keeping staff, families, and the community informed. Updates will be shared through:

• Districtwide communications to staff and families.
• The district website (here).
• Official Board of Trustees meetings.

To support open communication, the district will also provide a form where staff can submit questions or concerns about the RIF process. This form will allow employees to submit questions anonymously so they can seek clarification without fear of retaliation. Questions collected will help the district identify common concerns and will be used to update public FAQs and staff communications.

If you have questions, please contact the Human Resources department or your campus administrator, or use the anonymous question form once it is posted.