Q:   What are the district’s expectations of my information posted on  myspace, facebook, and other websites?

A:   As educators, we hold a position of public trust.  In fulfilling that trust, educators should maintain the dignity of the profession and demonstrate personal integrity.   An area where some educators have gotten themselves into situations that do not portray suitability for the profession is through online postings on sites such as myspace, facebook, etc.  If you have information posted on the web, please check it to ensure it represents the profession well.  If have any questions, please contact the district’s personnel director. 

PERSONAL AND SICK LEAVE 

Q:   How many personal days can I take in a row without being “docked,” and what days are prohibited personal leave days?

A:   2 consecutive days are allowed per absence period.  Employee will be docked the daily rate of pay for each consecutive personal day taken after the allowable two consecutive days.  Personal leave days must be approved at least three days in advance, and are allowed throughout the year with the exception of the areas listed on page 37 of the HPISD Employee Handbook.

Q:   If I have to be out for personal reasons, what leave is allowed?

A:   Only personal leave is allowed for personal reasons.  Sick leave cannot be taken for personal absences.

Q:   If I have to be out for a funeral, what leave should I take?

A:   Sick leave can be used for immediate family only. For any other family members and friends, use personal leave.

Q:   What is the procedure for obtaining approval for a medical leave of absence?

A:   The employee should submit a request in writing and provide appropriate medical documents to the Personnel Office 30 days prior to the beginning of the leave, if possible.  If the leave will be extended, the employee must work with his/her supervisor to ensure appropriate instruction is left for the substitute.

Q:   How do I obtain information on Mutual Sick and Sick Leave Bank?

A:   You can find this information on our website under the Personnel section and then the Forms section.

PAYROLL AND INSURANCE

Q:   What do I do if I have a question regarding my paycheck, direct deposit or insurance?

A:   Change of name, address and W-4 forms are found in the personnel section of the HPISD website.  Complete these forms and submit them to the Personnel Office.  Copies of a new social security card are required for name changes.  HPISD Payroll Specialist, Vanessa Hart (x3021 or hartv@hpisd.org) will answer any questions you have about payroll or insurance, and the HPISD Personnel Office (x3010, x3011, x3012) will assist you with any other questions or changes you need to make.

MASTERS DEGREE AND STIPENDS

Q:   What are the district guidelines for earning a Master’s degree?

A:   A Master’s degree must be earned within six years of beginning employment with HPISD.  A degree plan must be filed during the first year, and the degree must be in the teacher’s teaching field or an associated field in education. 

Q:   What assistance is available to help me finance the Master’s degree?

A:   The campus PTA members generously award scholarships to selected teachers enrolled in Master’s degree programs.  Each November, HPISD awards incremental stipends to teachers who have earned 9, 18 or 27 hours toward a Master’s degree. 

Q:   Am I eligible for a stipend if I have graduate hours above a Master’s degree?

A:   Yes, you may be eligible if the courses are approved.  Each December, HPISD awards professional growth stipends to teachers who have acquired 12 to 24 hours above a Master’s degree.  Reference the HPISD Employee Handbook, page 28. 

SUBSTITUTES

Q:   To whom should I report substitute teacher concerns?

A:   Report any concerns regarding substitute teachers to the campus principal immediately.

MAINTENANCE

Q:   If I have a maintenance issue, what is the appropriate procedure to follow?

A:   Contact the building engineer or custodian.  They will complete a work order and submit it to the district facility services department. The repair will be completed in a timely manner.