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.