Q: What is a Reduced Workload?

A: A Reduced Work Load (RWL) allows a teacher working toward retirement to work part-time but to receive District contributions to STRS and to the cost of medical and dental benefits that are equal to what the District contributes when a teacher works full time.

Q: Who is eligible to go on a Reduced Workload?

A: State law requires that a teacher eligible for a RWL must be 55 years old and must have been employed full time in a position requiring certification for at least ten (10) years, of which the immediately preceding five years were full-time employment.

Q: What FTE do I have to work if I am on a RWL?

A: State law requires that a teacher on a RWL work no less than .50 FTE.

Q: How long can I work on a RWL?

A: State law limits the amount of time a teacher can be on a RWL to ten years.

Q: Does the District have to approve my request for a RWL?

A: They formally approve it, but they do not have discretion to say no.

Q: What happens with my benefits when I am on a RWL?

A: Your contribution and the District’s contribution to the cost of medical and dental premiums are calculated as if you are working full time.

Q: What happens with my annual sick leave credit when I am on a RWL?

A: Your sick leave credit is prorated based on your FTE. For example, if you work .60 FTE you will receive a credit of 6.6 sick leave days for that school year (11 days x .60 = 6.6 days).

Q: What if I want to increase my FTE the year after I start on an RWL?

A: You should fill out a Request for Leave Informed K-12 form for the following year with your new request.

Q: How can I get more information about the impact of a RWL on my STRS retirement?

A: BFT encourages you to talk with a STRS counselor. You can talk to a counselor by telephone by calling (800) 228-5453 and choosing the “telephone counseling” option, or by making an appointment to meet in person with a STRS counselor. To make an in-person appointment call the STRS office in Santa Clara.

Q: What do I do if I want to request a RWL?

A: If you want to request a RWL for the upcoming school year, you need to complete a Request for Leave Informed K-12 form. You should request your reduced workload prior to April 15th.

Updated 06-2024