As years go, this one has been a demanding one in terms of transitions. As this new administration enters the second half of our first year, we feel it's important to discuss the realities of the Sick Leave Bank, and share with you a few reminders moving forward.

For newer teachers unfamiliar with the days before the establishment of a defined Sick Leave Bank, it was once a practice among teachers in Erie to donate accumulated Sick Days to a friend in need. Often, those donations went to someone with a debilitating, life threatening injury or disease, but HR also permitted donations to go to someone who was simply out of days and who had, for example, suffered a sudden, severe illness or an injury in an automobile accident. That practice ended, however, when it was determined that donating sick leave between employees was technically illegal under PA law.

To retain the strength of solidarity and allow union members the continue to help others in need, the Association created the Sick Leave Bank and began operating it in accordance with Pennsylvania State Code. With the help of PSEA, the Association's members collaborated on guidelines and procedures, agreed on them across membership, and codified them in the documents you see attached here. 

The takeaway is this: The Sick Leave Bank is intended to replace the daily income of a participating EEA member who is unable to work due to a long-term, continuous absence resulting from a serious illness, disability, or accident. For the purposes of Sick Leave Bank applications, a serious illness is defined as a health condition that carries a high risk of mortality and significantly impacts a person’s daily functioning or quality of life.

Please note that the SLB Committee for SY 2025-2026 does not have insight into how days may have been awarded by previous leadership or committees.

Members are strongly encouraged to carefully read the application, guidelines, and qualification requirements before submitting a request.

The Committee reviews each case individually.

The following are required at the time of submission:

● Up-to-date FMLA paperwork

● Accompanying medical documentation

● Physician certification for the days requested

The Committee reserves the right to verify any information provided on application forms with the District Personnel Office.

All guidelines will be applied equitably to every member applicant. The Sick Leave Bank Committee has the sole authority and discretion to grant days from the Bank.

Please remember that participation in the Sick Leave Bank is entirely optional. Members may renew their participation or elect to leave the Bank at the beginning of any school year in accordance with established timelines.

If you have any questions, please refer to the guidelines or contact the Committee for clarification at SLBank.eea@gmail.com

Thank you.