The January episode of Beyond the Bell dives into one of winter’s most predictable school realities: an increase in teacher absences and a surge in substitute usage. In a lighthearted and engaging conversation, HR Director Patrick Flanagan is joined by Associate Directors Brenda Byrnes (Secondary Schools) and Katy Timothy (Elementary Schools) to discuss what administrators can expect from the busy mid-winter staffing season. Together, they highlight the outstanding work done by the vast majority of substitutes, share observations from both secondary and elementary buildings, and acknowledge the partnership principals provide in supporting subs through the busiest months of the year.

The episode also gives a clear, practical overview of how and when to submit a substitute complaint using the district’s formal process. Brenda and Katy walk listeners through when a concern warrants an HR follow-up, why the complaint form is essential, and what details make a submission most effective. They explain how HR reviews each complaint, coaches substitutes where needed, and ensures consistent and fair outcomes across the district. The episode wraps with appreciation for administrators’ leadership and flexibility during the winter stretch, reinforcing HR’s ongoing commitment to support every school as sub needs rise. Click here to access the infographic that outlines the information in this episode.

The holiday special episode of Before the Bell is a lighthearted and heartfelt thank-you from the Human Resources team to Granite’s principals and district administrators. Stepping away from deadlines, policies, and procedures, this episode uses a playful adaptation of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” to reflect on the shared challenges of the year—staffing shortages, evaluations, hiring, compliance, and long days spent supporting schools and employees.

Framed by a warm message from HR Director Patrick Flanagan, the episode celebrates the partnership, patience, and leadership shown by administrators across the district. It’s a moment to pause, laugh, and feel appreciated, offering well-earned recognition and best wishes for a restful winter break before everyone returns to the important work ahead.

The December episode of Beyond the Bell provides school principals and district administrators with a comprehensive overview of Granite School District’s Early Retirement Incentive Program. Patrick Flanagan explains the core eligibility requirements, including years of service, Utah Retirement Systems participation, and the required HR consultation. The episode also walks through the universal district retirement benefit formula, insurance continuation for up to five years, and the specific incentives available to different employee groups, including the annual 12% stipend for teachers, administrators, and middle managers, and insurance continuation benefits for classified and secretarial employees.

Beyond the technical details, this episode emphasizes the important role principals and administrators play in supporting employee retirement planning by encouraging early conversations and guiding staff to HR for accurate information. The episode closes with a reflection on the value of long-term service in Granite and how the early retirement incentive serves as a meaningful way the district recognizes decades of dedication to students, schools, and the community.

November's episode focuses on important timelines and programs that directly impact Granite administrators staff including evaluation deadlines, retirement notifications, the SHiNE and Teacher Merit Award (TMA) programs, stipend coach requirements, and teacher licensing updates.

We also take a few moments to discuss the human side of leadership, exploring how the Dignity Index framework can help guide respectful and empathetic conversations during progressive discipline. These reminders are designed to help Granite administrators support for employees as we move deeper into the school year.

Access the full Fall HR Newsletter by clicking on the following hyperlink: Fall HR Newsletter

The October episode of Beyond the Bell focuses on Open Enrollment, a critical time of year when every contract employee must review and elect or waive their benefits for the upcoming plan year. Joined by Associate Director of Benefits, Berkley King, Patrick Flanagan explains the open enrollment process, the September 29–October 15 timeline, and why principals play such an important role in reminding their staff to complete this requirement. They highlight the $50 late fee for missed deadlines and the risk of coverage lapsing if employees do not act in time.

The episode also introduces the Benefit Fairs held at the Granite Education Center on October 2, 6, and 14, where employees can meet with vendors, receive flu shots, ask questions, and enter prize drawings. Principals are encouraged to share reminders in faculty meetings and newsletters, ensuring their staff know how to log in through Employee Navigator, what documentation may be required, and where to turn for support. The goal is clear: help employees avoid stress, stay covered, and take advantage of the resources available.

This month’s Beyond the Bell takes a deep dive into Progressive Discipline and Capacity Building, helping principals understand how to support employees while maintaining consistent standards. HR Director Patrick Flanagan and Associate Director Wyatt Bentley walk listeners through Granite’s step-by-step Corrective Action Framework—from informal coaching conversations to district-level interventions—emphasizing that the goal is improvement, not punishment. Along the way, they stress the importance of early intervention, documentation, and providing employees with clear expectations and the tools to succeed.

The episode also highlights practical strategies for capacity building, including mentoring, professional development, and clarity of expectations, as well as when to involve HR for guidance and due process support. Principals will come away with concrete takeaways: address concerns early, document thoroughly, stay consistent and fair, and lean on HR as a partner throughout the process. Whether dealing with performance issues or conduct concerns, this conversation equips school leaders to approach corrective action as a pathway to growth rather than a checklist of consequences.

The August episode of Beyond the Bell kicks off the new school year with timely HR updates every Granite principal should know. This episode covers key evaluation reminders, including how to verify employee lists and ensure accurate assignments in Frontline before the August 5th deadline. You'll also hear an important licensing update: CACTUS is retiring in October, and the new USIMS system will require earlier FTE audits and account setup for licensed staff. We also spotlight evaluation responsibilities for APPEL candidates and walk through what to expect during the USIMS transition.

Beyond licensing and evaluation, this episode offers a refresh on the newly renamed Granite Medical Leave Form (formerly the DFL), including when to request it and how to stay compliant with HIPAA. We review the step-by-step process for handling workplace injuries—from reporting and treatment to required documentation and follow-up with HR. Finally, we wrap up with a friendly reminder that lane changes aren’t just for teachers—principals can advance too. Tune in to make sure you’re not leaving professional growth—or compensation—on the table.