Leave of Absence for Union Officers. Upon written request of the Union, submitted at least ninety (90) days prior to the start of the work year, the Board shall grant full-time leaves of absence to not more than three (3) employees for service as officers or staff employees of the Union (local, state or national). For the equivalent of up to one and one-half positions in the aggregate, the leave shall be with pay. The Union shall notify the Board of the manner in which the paid leave shall be allocated among those on leave. For those not designated for paid leave by the Union, the Board shall continue to pay regular salary and benefits, and the Union shall reimburse the full cost of said salary and benefits, including but not limited to the cost of health and retirement benefits, to the Board by making monthly payments of the full cost of such salary and benefits. Annually, the Board’s fiscal office shall review the reimbursements made under this provision and notify the Union of any additional payment required to ensure that the Union has made payment in full. Such additional payment shall be made within thirty (30) days of written notice to the Union. All leaves under this provision shall be coterminous with the term of office and the school year. Extensions of said leave may be requested and shall be favorably considered. Leave shall be with position held, unless there is mutual agreement to the contrary. If an officer is returning from leave and the position which he/she formerly held has been eliminated because of a reduction in force or for other reason, the parties shall meet to discuss and resolve the matter; if no mutual agreement is reached, the dispute may be submitted by either party to expedited arbitration. An employee who terminates as an officer or staff employee prior to the expiration of his/her leave of absence may request to return to work earlier. In such case, the school district shall attempt, but shall not be required, to accommodate the request for early return. Employees granted leaves of absence under this subsection shall receive credit toward: (1) annual salary increments on schedules appropriate to their rank, and (2) seniority. This leave shall not be considered as a break in service for any purpose.
Appears in 8 contracts
Samples: Collective Bargaining Agreement, Collective Bargaining Agreement, Collective Bargaining Agreement
