MIDDLETON-CROSS PLAINS AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
CARE & SUPPORT FOR OUR STAFF Employee Services The Board of Education announced in March, shortly after Wisconsin schools were closed by Governor Evers, that all District staff members would continue to be employed. The School Board is committed to keeping everyone employed for the 2020-21 school year as well. Essential staff, including custodians, facilities maintenance, office staff and administrators, have been working in buildings for much of the past few months.
We are strongly encouraging all staff to access our buildings now and while virtual learning is taking place throughout the District. We believe this is important for a number of reasons: Staff can have the support and technology they need, including reliable internet access. Staff can become comfortable coming back to work before students return. Staff who aren’t comfortable returning to buildings need to have conversations with their direct supervisor so the District can have a better understanding of the reasons and refer people who may qualify to the Employee Services Department. Hourly staff will only be paid for the hours they work, however, we will find meaningful work for all of the scheduled hours support staff normally work. Job responsibilities may look different for some support staff during virtual learning. In addition, depending on the assigned duties, some support staff may be allowed some flexibility in their schedule.
The District expects staff members to return to work once school buildings reopen unless a staff member qualifies under a specific law or policy for a leave or accommodation. A general feeling of uneasiness or a concern that by physically returning to work might increase exposure to family members is generally not going to be a sufficient reason to remain away from work, according to federal leave requirements. The District Employee Services Department has made staff aware of three federal and-or state programs individual staff members may be eligible for: 1. Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA): An employee may be eligible for paid leave (beyond sick leave and vacation) as a result of COVID-19. 2. Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA): If an employee believes they have a serious health condition, they may be eligible for FMLA under state or federal law. 3. American Disabilities Act (ADA) and Wisconsin Fair Employment Act (WFEA): Employees with disabilities may be eligible for a reasonable accommodation that allows an employee to continue working or return to work. This generally requires documentation from a medical provider regarding the nature of the disability and any specific accommodation request.
FALL PLAN: STARTING THE SCHOOL YEAR
26
