Article 21
Dear Members,
Whew! I have received a lot of questions about this new language. I will put the language below, but let me explain some things before you read.
First of all, sick leave, discretionary, and business have all been put into one category called annual leave. In the past, as you all know, when we had to call in for a sub, we had to designate which days we were going to be using. So…with that said, let’s look at Article 21.1:
21.1 Effective with the 2007-08 school year, seventy-seven hours of annual leave will be granted during each year of employment to be used at the professional discretion of the teacher.
We now have 77 hours, or the equivalent of 11 days to be used at our discretion. At our discretion--meaning, no principal, no substitute secretary, no one can tell us how to use our annual leave.
I have already heard too many stories out there of principals trying to resurrect the “old days” or hanging onto old language by telling the teacher how to use this leave. Folks, it can’t be done, and if it is tried, let SVVEA know about it immediately!
There is no longer a rule about before Thanksgiving, or after a holiday…it truly is up to our discretion!
The next couple of Articles are important.
21.3 Accrued sick leave may only be accessed after all annual leave days have been utilized.
Accrued sick leave, and notice I say sick leave, can be used only after all annual leave has been used. And it is for sick leave.
21.4 Accrued sick leave with full pay is granted to teachers absent from duty due to personal illness or injury of the teacher or their family member. Such paid leave will only be granted if the teacher has available hours.
You must have the hours available if you need sick leave.
Now, with that said, we are professionals, hence the philosophical statement regarding our importance of being in the classroom and the importance of assessment period.
The Association and the St. Vrain Valley School District recognize that quality instruction is best achieved by professional, licensed staff and we acknowledge the importance of each instructional day. We honor the commitment to fulfill the terms of attendance for each contract day.
We also understand the unique requirements of staff related to the assessment periods of CSAP, ACT, and CELA. The Association and the District recognize the importance of being present during these critical times.
It is now our right to use our leave as we deem necessary. However, it is also our responsibility to use it judiciously, exacting our professional judgment.
If you have any questions, please call SVVEA at 303-772-3666.