The Board of Education recognizes the need to maintain and support a Return-to-Work Program. The Board will meet its obligation to an injured worker by having the Superintendent or designee contact the worker as soon as possible after the injury to jointly work on developing a return-to-work plan. The return-to-work plan will be based on the individual needs of each worker and will incorporate all relevant information. The process will include the employee, doctor and supervisor to ensure that the health and recovery of the employee is a priority.

Should an employee be unable to return to their pre-injury position as result of a work-related injury, the Board will consider alternate options. These options shall include a Transitional Work Program. All employees are expected to participate and cooperate in the Return-to-Work Program.

The Transitional Work Program represents a process to minimize the impact to a work-related injury, illness, or disability on an employee's capacity to work safely and productively. It serves as a benefit to protect the employability of workers with restrictions. It involves an early intervention process and the timely utilization of internal and external services and interventions. The program focuses on early return to work strategies designed to control lost time and disability costs. The program requires joint employee and management involvement, support and accountability.

Adopted 10/22/07