Human Resources

Module 11: Leaves of Absence

In this module, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the most often used types of leaves of absence, the expectations of employees taking a leave of absence, and the consequences of non-compliance with leave of absence policies. Leave of absence policies give direction to employees who must be absent from work for a variety of reasons. The Department may grant leaves of absence to its employees as provided by the Hawaii Revised Statues (HRS), Board (BOE) policy, Department Regulations and the collective bargaining agreements (CBA).

The objectives of this learning module include:

- Know how to find out which bargaining unit’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) applies to the employee’s position.
- Know how to find out if an employee is a 10- or 12-month employee.
- Know why to use the OFS/OHR chart of Leave Codes.
- Know what paid holidays are permitted.
- Know the provisions for vacation leave for various types of school level employees.
- Know what to do if vacation leave is denied to a classified employee.
- Understand the processes for Department Directed Leave and Leave Pending Investigation.
- Understand the circumstances for paid leave due to adverse weather.
- Know which types of employees might be able to apply for sabbatical leave.
- Cite the three sources of authorization for employee’s leave of absence.
- Review the differences between 10- and 12-month teachers, principals and vice principals, and classified/SSP employees, with respect to leave provisions.
- Know what to do if an employee does not request and submit the appropriate leave of absence forms.
- Understand what happens to unused sick leave credits.
- Know how sick leave credit/accrual is different for 10-month employees as compared to most 12-month employees.
- Understand the possible impacts of leave without pay.
- Know whom to ask for assistance in leave administration.