The Aspen Peaks Board of Education unanimously approved three separate early retirement incentive policies. The board had discussed the policies in a previous meeting, but since then added language that extended early retirement eligibility to employees who earned credit in Alpine School District or any of the three “sister” school districts.
“We wanted to focus on these early retirement policies first so that our employees know that we are committed to honoring these early retirement benefits that everyone has been planning on,” said Nicki Brammer, who chairs the board’s policy committee.
The approved policy reads, “...Has completed immediately preceding retirement, a minimum of fifteen (15) current, consecutive, full-time years with Alpine Aspen Peaks School District (and/or its predecessor Alpine School District or sister districts—Timpanogos School District or Lake Mountain School District) to qualify for a stipend…” (emphasis added).
The same language was added to three separate policies that offer the incentive to three employee groups:
Policy 4752 - Administration Early Retirement
Policy 4253- Certified Early Retirement
Policy 4415- Education Support Professionals Early Retirement
“This early retirement possibility gives an educator more options than they would have otherwise. And that's the entire purpose in my heart for education,” said Board Member Jason Theler. “it provides more opportunities and more options and recognizes their valuable contribution that they've made.”
Board members cited the uncertainty among current Alpine employees who may consider employment in one of the three new districts, but are not sure of the benefits available to them.
“These policies allow employees to feel more secure in their retirement benefits and settle much of the uncertainty of the coming transition,” said Dr. Joel Perkins, superintendent of Aspen Peaks School District. “They do amazing work every day in supporting our students and we want them to face the future with optimism and excitement.”
The policies took effect upon approval, but Aspen Peaks will not have eligible employees until July 1, 2027 when it assumes operations from Alpine School District.