12/22/20; 2:00PM
We are pleased to let you know that we recently received updated guidance from the UNC System extending several of our current COVID-19 leave programs that were scheduled to expire on December 31, 2020. The following programs have been extended, entirely or in amended form, effective January 1 through March 31, 2021:
- Interchangeable use of available sick leave, vacation leave and bonus leave for absences related to COVID-19.
- Up to 160 hours of COVID-19 Paid Administrative Leave for certain COVID-19-related absences.
- Authority to continue operating our Shared Leave Bank.
- Extended Community Service Leave options.
A detailed summary of these extended options and criteria for their use has been posted to the Office of Human Resources website here.
Additional Updates
- On December 17, the UNC System launched a new “Resilience During COVID” website containing resilience and stress-management resources for faculty and staff. The site contains links to numerous informational resources related to Mental Health and Well-Being, Resiliency and Equity, and Stress Management. This valuable collection of resources can be accessed here.
- As a reminder, our upcoming winter break closure (December 24 – January 1) includes two days that are not covered by holidays and require staff to apply personal leave (December 30 and 31). As in past years, in lieu of applying personal leave for these two days, staff may:
o Telework, with approval of their supervisors.
o Utilize Community Service Leave by volunteering in the community. The University’s ACT Office maintains a list of community partners with volunteer needs. That updated list can be found here.
o Engage in online learning offered through Human Resources Learning and Organizational Development. Available learning opportunities can be accessed here.
As always, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 828-262-3187 or human-resources@appstate.edu with questions or for assistance.