Breach of Contract

By Alexis Frankel '99
While working under a contract with GA, five teachers decided not to return to the faculty this year. Although it was a mere coincidence that five teachers decided not to return, this situation gave rise to talk and shock. This was because, in the past, it was rare for GA to have any more than one teacher leave while under contract.

The Germantown Academy faculty sign a contract at the end of February or the beginning of March. The signing of this contract means that both parties, the school and the employee, have agreed to help each other the following year; the school by providing a job and a salary, the employee by providing a service. This year five teachers signed contracts which they technically broke by accepting another position after the papers had been signed. When one or two employees break a contract, people are aware, but when five employees break contracts without warning, people immediately begin to talk about why the individuals left and what should be done about it; not to mention the schools panic to find new teachers for the year to fill the empty places.

It is important to note that all the teachers had verifiably understandable excuses. The individuals involved felt no animosity toward the school, nor did the school have problems with them. It should also be known that the school does not look unfavorably upon people who explore other career options. In fact, it supports these actions. As Dr. Perot stated, "It is good to be aware of opportunities available beyond this community."

As could be expected, questions have been raised about changing the contract policy, as well as about the moral responsibility of GA teachers who sign these contracts. As to a change in contract policy, the personnel committee will discuss the situation. However, considering that this was really no more than a coincidence, the committee will most likely leave the system as it stands. As to a moral question, this is a question that has many answers. It would have been the best policy to let the school know of their possible departures, but as to a long career at GA, that is entirely up to the individuals.