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Education Leave - Appointed Personnel

Definition

Education Leave allows eligible Appointed employees to take leave from the University for a period of up to one year, or up to two years provided that the extension request is approved.

Eligibility

• Employees with continuing status; and,
• Education leave is authorized by the Provost; and,
• Education leave is in the best interest of the University; and,
• Evidence is provided that any educational or training course included in the proposed leave project has been or can be arranged.

Procedure

• Application for leave without pay must be filed at least six months in advance of the proposed starting date.
• Application for extension must be made at least thirty days in advance of the expiration of the initial leave.

What Happens to Your Benefits?

• You may continue your health benefits for six months by paying both the employer and employee cost of any such benefits.

• Following the starting leave date, you will receive in the mail a packet from the Leave Management team of the Human Resources including:

  • The form to waive, change or continue the existing benefits
  • The bill with the itemized employee benefit cost as well as payment schedule
  • Other helpful information
• Continuation of coverage after six months is available through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).

Form

• Form 1 (Template for Letter to President Requesting Approval of Unpaid Leave of Absence)

Link to Policy

• University Handbook for Appointed Personnel, Policy 8.04.05

FAQs

Q: May I accept part-time paid employment, scholarships, or fellowships during such a leave?

A: Yes, provided that they are compatible with the leave project and are approved in advance.

Q: May I accept supplemental compensation if this opportunity develops after the leave has been approved or begun?

A: Yes, provided that you seek the University's approval at the earliest convenience.

Q: May I terminate the leave in mid-term and resume paid employment?

A: Only with the Provost's agreement.

Q: What requirements do I have to meet upon return from this leave?

A: No later than two months following the end of your leave, you should file a concise report with your dean or director, for transmittal to the appropriate vice President and/or the Provost. The report should indicate whether the objectives of the project were achieved.

Q: Will the period of this leave count towards my retirement benefits?

A: No.