Contractual employees are eligible for various types of leave of Absence as defined in Federal and State law, and by contract. Leaves may be either paid or unpaid depending on leave type or individual circumstance, and may also qualify for benefits under the New Jersey Family Leave Act.

Individuals granted unpaid leave should be aware that the suspension of salary payments may result in the suspension of life insurance and/or disability insurance benefits, and that direct payment of health insurance contributions is required for continuing health insurance coverage. In other words, Chapter 78 contributions for health insurance expire after the required 12 weeks of FMLA/NJFLA leave, leaving the employee responsible for the monthly premium payment of their Health Care Plan if they elect to stay on the district’s Health Care Plan.

Finally, individuals should check with their local pension system to understand how an unpaid leave of absence may or may not affect their pension.