All professional staff members not otherwise covered by the terms of a currently valid negotiated agreement of this District shall be entitled to the same leave benefits provided in the master agreement with Fruitport Education Association.

All requests for unpaid leaves of absence by professional staff members shall be presented to the Board of Education for approval.

Any professional staff member granted a leave of absence by the Board shall be considered to have terminated all work with the School District until the completion of the leave. Exceptions may be made by the Superintendent in cases where the best interest of the District might be served.