The School Board believes that early recognition and treatment of illegal drug use, controlled substance abuse, alcohol abuse, and mental health problems are important for successful rehabilitation, return to productive work, and reduced personal, family, and social disruption.

The District encourages the earliest possible diagnosis and treatment for these conditions and supports sound treatment efforts. The decision to seek diagnosis and accept treatment for these conditions is primarily the individual staff member's responsibility. Any costs associated with treatment in excess of those costs covered by the staff member's medical insurance plan shall be borne by the individual.

Staff members with these conditions should request assistance from the Manager of Human Resources and Employee Benefits. Assistance will be provided on a confidential basis, and each staff member will be referred to the appropriate treatment and counseling services.

The responsibility to correct unsatisfactory job performance or behavior resulting from a suspected health problem rests with the support staff member. Failure to do so will result in appropriate corrective or disciplinary action as determined by the Superintendent and approved by the Board.

No support staff member will have his/her job security or promotion opportunities jeopardized by his/her request for counseling or referral assistance.

F.S. 1012.798
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. 794