DISCRETIONARY LEAVE

Leave taken at an employee’s discretion that can be scheduled in advance is considered discretionary leave. An employee wishing to take discretionary personal leave must submit a Discretionary Leave Form to his or her principal or supervisor at least three days in advance of the anticipated absence. Discretionary personal leave will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis and will be subject to the following limitations: 

• Discretionary leave may not last more than three consecutive workdays, except with special approval from the Superintendent or designee for extenuating circumstances. (Board Policy DEC Local)
• Discretionary leave may not be taken on the following key days: the day before a school holiday; the day after a school holiday; days scheduled for end-of-semester or end-of-year exams; days scheduled for state-mandated testing; or professional/staff development days. See list of Blackout Dates.
• The effect of the employee’s absence on the educational program or department operations, as well as the availability of substitutes, will be considered by the principal or supervisor. 

Discretionary leave requests that do not comply with the above policy must be submitted to the Superintendent or designee.  Since learning best occurs when the regular teacher is in the classroom, please plan trips and vacations around the school calendar. Unapproved leave that is not in accordance with district  policy will result in a dock in pay. 

Contact HR Department with any questions at hr@libertyhill.txed.net or 512-260-5586.