Unpaid leave may be used to excuse an involuntary absence not provided for in other leave policies. Unpaid leave for classified employees must be authorized by the superintendent.
Whenever possible, classified employees shall make a written request for unpaid leave ten days prior to the beginning date of the requested leave. If the leave is granted, the deductions in salary are made unless they are waived specifically by the superintendent.
The superintendent or his/her designee shall have complete discretion to grant or deny the requested unpaid leave. In making this determination, the superintendent shall consider the effect of the employee's absence on the education program and school district operations, the financial condition of the school district, length of service, previous record of absence, the reason for the requested absence and other factors the superintendent believes are relevant in making this determination.
If unpaid leave is granted, the duration of the leave period is coordinated with the scheduling of the education program whenever possible, to minimize the disruption of the education program and school district operations.
The requirements stated in the Master Contract between employees in that classified collective bargaining unit and the board regarding unpaid leave shall be followed.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 279.8 (2013).
Cross Reference: 414 Classified Employee Vacations and Leaves of Absence