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Sick Leave Bank

Q: What is the Sick Leave Bank?

A: The BFT Sick Leave Bank is a voluntary, cooperative way to ensure that members who suffer from a major illness or accident can be paid for work days they miss, even if they have used all of their own accumulated sick leave.

When you join you agree to donate one sick leave day per year for three years, and you become eligible for up to 40 days from the Bank if needed. You cannot receive donations or donate days to colleagues in need if you are not a member of the Sick Leave Bank. 

The Sick Leave Bank is an exercise in mutual aid and strength through unity!

Q: How do I join?

A: Open Enrollment in the BFT/BUSD Sick Leave Bank will take place from October 1st - October 31st. You can join by completing the enrollment form you will receive during that time and returning the form to the BFT office in district mail.

Q: What if I’m not sure if I have already joined?

A: If you send in an enrollment form and you are already enrolled we will just shred the duplicate form. If you are not sure, it is best for you to send in an enrollment form.

Q: How many days must I contribute to be a member?

A: New members contribute one day per year for three successive years.

Q: When can I use the Sick Leave Bank?

A: If you have missed 20 consecutive working days AND have used up all of your accumulated sick leave, you can apply.

Q: How many days can I get from the Sick Leave Bank?

A: You can get 20 days on your first application. You can ask for an extension of 20 more days.

Q: Who decides whether I get the days?

A: There is a three-member Governing Board. The Board will check for medical verification and allocate the days.

Q: How do I pay the days back?

A: After you have returned to work, you repay 2 days per year.

Q: What if I have more questions?

A: Contact the BFT at 549-2307 or president@berkeleyteachers.org.

Updated 8-9-19