Minimize your holiday risk

Enjoy the holiday activities in your school community, but remember that safety issues, teacher responsibilities and school policies don't take a break. Here are some tips for dealing with common holiday issues.

• Check with your facilities or maintenance manager to ensure that lighted or other electrical displays are safe.
• There probably is not a “holiday party” exception to a district’s zero-tolerance policies for drugs and alcohol, so don’t drink on school property.
• Unless you are an on-duty school bus or other authorized driver, do not offer rides to students. Even if inclement weather or other considerations would seem to make it reasonable or generous, call the parents to pick up their children.
• If you are planning to take a few extra days off or if you acquire a flu bug, make sure you know your district’s holiday leave policies to ensure you comply with any special requirements. Sometimes there are restrictions on the use of sick leave the day before or after a holiday. The policy may require a doctor’s note or require you to use personal leave days.

Otherwise, use common sense and enjoy your upcoming winter break. If you have any questions, call your field service representative at (800) 392-0532.

Once a week, MSTA’s legal team will post a new pointer to help you be proactive in preventing and addressing matters that sometimes lead to legal concerns. Of course, we will continue to provide our legal services to members who contact us through the regular channels.

The information in this site is for educational purposes only. The information contained here does not constitute legal advice, and the use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you have a confidential legal matter to discuss, please contact the Legal Services Department at (800) 392-0532. We would be happy to help you.

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