From time to time, full-time members contemplate making the switch to part-time.  Although there are provisions for teachers to make this change, there are some issues that members need to consider:

February 28 Deadline to Apply

February 28 – this is the date by which you need to have your request to move to part-time into Human Resources.  This process is now done electronically throught myKPR.  The Status Change form is usually posted on myKPR in early December.  Once you have made that request, you should contact your principal to discuss your preferences in terms of how your part-time work may be assigned (i.e. Mornings vs Afternoons, all in one semester).  As a contract member you have a guaranteed right to return to full-time status so long as you were full-time as a contract teacher before (Article 24.09.02).

Benefits

Your benefits will continue with the same coverage, but you will need to pay your share, pro-rated to the amount that you are part-time.  For instance, the board pays about $350 a month for family benefits (semi-private, extended health & dental) or about $170 per paycheque (4% of yearly pay).  If you went 2/3 (.667) time, you would be responsible for 1/3 (.333) of the amount or about $56 per paycheque.

Additional Duties (On-Calls and Supervisions)

By moving to part-time status, your obligations in terms of the number of on-calls and supervisions are reduced, again pro-rated by the amount that you are part-time.  Article 9.14.01 of the Collective Agreement clearly spells this out using a chart.  You can download the agreement from our District website: www.osstfd14.ca

Preparation Time

The terms of your prep time are a bit trickier to define.  You still need to fulfill the out-of-class duties that all teachers are responsible for, again in a pro-rated manner.  If you taught periods 1 and 2, you would still be expected to, sometimes, spend some time in period 3 phoning parents, making yourself available to students, connecting with administration and colleagues, and, of course, completing your share of on-calls.  Generally, this time is not scheduled but your administration needs to be confident that you are professionally managing your prep time.  On the other hand, if you ever feel that you are being taken advantage of, call the district office.

Time-Table

Time-tabling can be tricky as well.  Administration will make all efforts to accommodate your request of which periods you want to teach, but be aware that requesting specific periods could significantly limit your assignment choices.

Pension - OTPP

Your pension will be affected by moving to part-time status.  The number of years you accumulate towards reaching your 85 factor (years in plan) will not change.  However, your credit years will.  For instance, if you went 2/3 time for three years, you would only have accumulated 2 years worth of pension contributions compared to someone working full-time.  So, by working part-time, you will still retire at the same date, but with less in your pension.  You can get more information about how going part-time will effect your pension by contacting OTPP (1-800-668-0105)

Long Term Disability and Life Insurance

Long Term Disability (LTD) will be affected as well.  Your LTD premium is tied to your income so in the event that you become disabled while on part-time status, any LTD payments will be based on that part-time pay.  Your LTD premiums will lower proportionally, but should you become disabled, any LTD payout would be lowered as well.

Life Insurance is similar to LTD. Because you would be making less, your premium would be lower as would any payout in the unfortunate event of your death.

Other Considerations

Of course, with less income, you may find yourself in a lower tax bracket as well . . .  and that is a good thing!

The option of moving to part-time status is an important one.  Each member’s unique personal situation dictates whether a move to part-time status is needed, however members need to be aware of the issues related to such a change.  As always, don’t hesitate to contact the District Office with questions before making decisions.