Welcome to Wicomico County Public Schools

SUBSTITUTE

TEACHER GUIDE

BOARD OF EDUCATION OF WICOMICO COUNTY

2424 Northgate Drive, Suite 100

Salisbury, Maryland 21801

2017-2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................... 3

Conditions of Employment for Substitutes ................................................................................................... 4

Inclusive Working Hours for Professional Staff ........................................................................................... 5

Guidelines/Procedures for Substitutes .......................................................................................................... 6

Salary Scale .................................................................................................................................................. 9

Substitute Teachers and the Affordable Care Act ......................................................................................... 9

Instructions for Swiping and Signing In/Out .............................................................................................. 10

Frequently Asked Questions about Kronos ................................................................................................ 11

Salary Payments .......................................................................................................................................... 12

Worker’s Compensation Insurance ............................................................................................................. 12

Tax Sheltered Annuity Programs ................................................................................................................ 13

403(b) Universal Availability Notice ......................................................................................................... 14

General Policies

Fingerprinting and Criminal Record Check ......................................................................................... 15

Disclosure of Criminal Conviction Policy ........................................................................................... 15

Employee Alcohol, Controlled Substance and Drug-Free Workplace Policy...................................... 15

Employment Eligibility Verification .................................................................................................... 15

Harassment and Sexual Harassment Policy & Procedure .................................................................... 15

Identification Badges............................................................................................................................ 15

Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect Policy & Procedure ................................................................ 16

Telecommunications Technology Policy ............................................................................................. 16

Social Media Policy ............................................................................................................................. 16

Tobacco-Free Schools Policy ............................................................................................................... 16

Communicable Disease and Bloodborne Pathogen Policy .................................................................. 16

Hepatitis B Vaccination Statement....................................................................................................... 16

School Crisis Plan Crisis Management Code System .......................................................................... 17

BOARD OF EDUCATION OF WICOMICO COUNTY

2424 NORTHGATE DRIVE, SUITE 100 P.O. BOX 1538 SALISBURY, MD 21802-1538

TELEPHONE 410-677-4542

FAX 410-677-4416

www.wcboe.org

The Board of Education recognizes the importance of the role of the substitute teacher to the operation of

an effective school system. Good substitutes are skillful and knowledgeable. Just as the regular classroom teacher

must keep up with the latest methods and techniques, so must the substitute teacher. Competent substitutes enable

us to provide a continuing instructional program for students.

This guide is designed to help substitutes become familiar with the rules, regulations and procedures which

affect all public schools in Wicomico County. Information and suggestions for planning and carrying out the

instructional program of all grade levels are included. Information on policies and procedures which are related to

specific schools will be provided at the individual school.

This guide, coupled with help from the school administrators and classroom teachers, hopefully, will enable

substitute teachers to provide the optimum help to students they will serve.

BOARD OF EDUCATION OF WICOMICO COUNTY

2424 NORTHGATE DRIVE, SUITE 100 P.O. BOX 1538 SALISBURY, MD 21802-1538

TELEPHONE 410-677-4542

FAX 410-677-4416 www.wcboe.org

Welcome to the Wicomico County school system. Thank you for giving your time and expertise to the staff and students

of Wicomico County Public Schools. Providing an atmosphere and environment that are conducive to the learning process is

very important and a serious responsibility. We are very appreciative of your services to us in these areas.

In order for Absence Management to operate efficiently and to provide a positive environment for the students of

Wicomico County, the following conditions of employment for substitute teachers have been established by the Board of

Education. The conditions are not to be considered a discouragement to substitute, but to emphasize the need for a professional

commitment from you.

A. Excessive lateness, cancellations and/or refusals of assignments, may result in the substitute teacher’s removal

from the list of eligible substitutes.

B. You must be available to work at least 5 substitute assignments per month. Failure to work 5 assignments per

month may result in your name being removed from the active substitute list. Any exceptions to this rule must

be approved by the Director of Human Resources or his designee. All requests must be

C. If you are unavailable or not working for two (2) months, you may be removed from the list. Any exceptions to

this rule must be approved by the Director of Human Resources or his designee. All requests must be

submitted in writing.

D. You must be able to perform the essential functions of the job. This includes, but is not limited to, the ability

to; work independently, follow a schedule, implement lesson plans, maintain classroom management, and

communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, using the English language when deemed necessary.

E. You must demonstrate a continued serious attitude toward substitute teaching and adhere to the guidelines and

policies as outlined in the Substitute Teacher Guide.

F. You must contact the school if you cannot fulfill your commitment for a substitute assignment. Failure to

notify and or report to work for any three assignments will be cause to automatically remove your name from

the eligible substitute list.

G. In the event a school administrator requests a substitute not return to his/her building due to unsatisfactory

performance and/or behavior, the substitute will be put on the site’s Exclusion List. Three (3) such requests for

the same grade level (i.e. elementary, middle, high) will result in termination.

H. You should understand that you will be employed at will which means that either you or the Wicomico County

Board of Education can terminate employment at any time.

Substitute teachers are maintained on the list of eligible substitutes contingent upon their ability to comply with personal

and professional standards of conduct. School administrators reserve the right to request that individual substitutes be placed

on their school’s exclusion list. The Director of Human Resources or his designees will review the nature of all requests and

you will be notified in writing of the request and personnel action taken. Conduct detrimental to the reputation of individual

schools and/or the school system, not in the interest of the instructional program, or constituting a threat to the safety or well-

being of students, the community, or school employees will be cause for removal from the substitute list.

Failure to comply with the above conditions of employment will cause your name to be subject to removal from the

eligible substitute teacher list. You will be notified in writing if we should remove your name from the list.

Also, it is imperative that any change in your status be communicated to this office immediately, i.e., name, address,

telephone number, availability, etc. If you wish to be removed from the list, you must submit your resignation in writing.

Please contact this office at 410-677-4542 or e-mail dsouza@wcboe.org with any changes you may have throughout the year.

We look forward to working with you this school year.

Vince Pavic

Director of Human Resources & Employee Relations

INCLUSIVE WORKING HOURS FOR PROFESSIONAL STAFF

Code School Name A.M.-P.M.

01 Beaver Run School .............................................................................................................................8:45-4:15

40 Bennett Middle School .......................................................................................................................7:30-3:00

15 Charles H. Chipman Elementary School ............................................................................................8:30-4:00

47 Choices ...............................................................................................................................................8:00-3:30

02 Delmar (MD) Elementary School .......................................................................................................7:45-3:15

03 East Salisbury Elementary School ......................................................................................................8:45-4:15

04 Fruitland Intermediate School ............................................................................................................8:45-4:15

05 Fruitland Primary School ....................................................................................................................8:45-4:15

06 Glen Avenue Elementary School ........................................................................................................8:30-4:00

41 James M. Bennett High School...........................................................................................................7:30-3:00

42 Mardela Middle and High School .......................................................................................................7:30-3:00

07 North Salisbury Elementary School ...................................................................................................8:15-3:45

Magnet School ....................................................................................................................................7:45-3:15

08 Northwestern Elementary School .......................................................................................................8:30-4:00

43 Parkside High School .........................................................................................................................7:30-3:00

09 Pemberton Elementary School............................................................................................................8:15-3:45

Magnet School ....................................................................................................................................7:45-2:45

10 Pinehurst Elementary School ............................................................................................................... 8:15:345

11 Pittsville Elementary/Middle School ..................................................................................................7:45-3:15

13 Prince Street Elementary School ........................................................................................................7:30-3:00

49 Salisbury Middle School .....................................................................................................................7:30-3:00

18 Westside Intermediate School ............................................................................................................8:45-4:15

17 Westside Primary School ....................................................................................................................8:45-4:15

23 Wicomico Early Learning Center .......................................................................................................8:30-4:00

45 Wicomico Middle School ...................................................................................................................7:30-3:00

46 Wicomico High School .......................................................................................................................7:30-3:00

19 Willards Elementary School ...............................................................................................................7:45-3:15

GUIDELINES & PROCEDURES FOR SUBSTITUTES

1. Substitutes should plan to arrive at school in sufficient time to look at plans and to familiarize themselves

with procedures. If you know that you will be arriving late, notify the school immediately.

2. Please follow school procedures for signing in and signing out. Please report actual sign-in and sign-out

time regardless of the beginning/ending time of the assigned job.

3. Substitutes are expected to work the same hours as the teacher or instructional assistant for whom they are

substituting. Any deviation from a substitute’s assigned work schedule will need to be approved by School

Administration.

4. A substitute may be requested by school administration to cover a different assignment from the one

originally accepted. School administration are responsible for maintaining what is in the best interest of

their students on a daily basis and reserve the right to appropriate staff, including substitutes to meet the

needs of the school. A substitute’s dependability and flexibility in are crucial to providing those students a

continued instructional program.

5. If an emergency should arise which prevents you from reporting to a job after you have accepted, you must

inform the school immediately so that other arrangements can be made. DO NOT FIND YOUR OWN

REPLACEMENT. If you cannot reach anyone at the school, you should call 410-677-4542. Please leave a

message if it is before or after office hours.

6. Personal appearance and hygiene of substitutes should be appropriate for the educational position they fill.

While school administrators will determine appropriate dress on a case-by-case basis, halter style tops, tank

tops, open midriff blouses, miniskirts, cut-offs, and tee shirts with advertising or suggestive statements are

not considered appropriate.

7. Substitutes should not display inappropriate conduct in the classroom. In addition, the use of inappropriate

language and/or topic is strictly prohibited. Disciplinary measures up to and including removal from the

substitute list will be taken should an incident occur.

8. The most important responsibility of the substitute is to assure that the student’s educational program

continues with as little change as possible due to the absence of the classroom teacher.

9. Students are to complete work left by regular teacher. Lesson plans will be provided by the regular

classroom teacher for a minimum of two days. If you find no plans, contact the principal or assistant

principal for guidance in instructional procedures.

10. If you are substituting for more than two days, you will be required to make your own daily plans. Your

lesson plans should have definite purposes and objectives based on the curriculum. Remember that well-

planned lessons make for a smooth running day and will eliminate many discipline problems.

11. Long term substitutes are required to follow the same schedule as the teacher for whom they are

substituting. This may include staff meetings, PTA meetings, parent conferences, etc. If you have any

questions concerning your long term assignment, please contact the school principal for clarification.

12. Telephone calls of a personal nature should be limited to "emergency" situations only.

13. Using cell phones to take pictures of students is strictly prohibited.

14. Sleeping on school property during work hours is unacceptable. Employees found to be doing so could be

subjected to serious disciplinary action leading to termination or dismissal from Wicomico County Board

of Education.

15. Take attendance in each class. Ask for notes on children who report to special classes, who are on

medication, etc. Substitutes must keep all information regarding students confidential. Any person having

access to records of students or personal information relating to a child’s intelligence, ability to perform,

family relationships or permanent records card data should hold this information strictly confidential.

16. Substitutes are required to remain with students at all times when the schedule calls for it. Under no

circumstances should students be left in an unsupervised location, e.g., school hall, classroom, etc.

Remaining with students is also important in the case of assemblies, as substitutes are responsible for the

behavior of students under their supervision.

17. Suspected child abuse must be reported to the appropriate agencies. (See Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect-

R, Section III, 4).

18. Any student injured during the school day should be sent to the health room where the school nurse can fill

out the Pupil/Visitor Accident report form.

19. Fire drill procedures and directions for evacuating the building should be furnished to the substitute or be

posted in the room. Ask for this information if it is not posted in the room.. Familiarize yourself with the

fire drill exit for the room(s) in which you will be teaching. Take the class register, or grade book, and

close all windows and doors.

20. The Superintendent of Schools requires that all schools/buildings have contingency plans for emergency

situations. Codes are used to commence a particular sequence of actions by staff. They are to be used

when it is necessary to communicate quickly. Substitutes should become familiar with the sequence of

events associated with each code. Codes are listed on page 21 of this guide.

21. Wicomico County schools operate on a six-day cycle rather than a weekly calendar. Days are referred to as

A, B, C, D, E, and F. Most subjects meet each of the letter days, but some meet every other day (A, C, E,

or B, D, F). The letter days continue consecutively even after emergency closings. No letter day is

“missed” during the school year.

22. In order to keep the substitute roster updated, it is most important that the Board of Education be kept

aware of the availability, current telephone number and address of substitutes. Any changes can be made

by calling Deb Souza at 410- 677-4542 or you may e-mail dsouza @wcboe.org. Should you wish to

terminate substitute services you must submit your resignation in writing to the Office of Human

Resources.

23. At no time should substitutes send any type of correspondence to the parents of students unless authorized

and preapproved by school administration.

24. Use of the school computer should be limited to the purpose of those duties assigned to you by the school

administrator or those duties required to carry out instruction in the classroom.

CHECKLIST OF MATERIALS THAT SHOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR SUBSTITUTES

1. Posted fire drill procedures

2. Appropriate class list

3. Procedures for checking class list

4. Names of class helpers and their duties

5. List of children needing medication or with any special health problems

6. List of everyday procedures for papers, lunch, absences, break, T.V., class changes, etc., with necessary forms

available

7. Names of teachers on same grade level, in the department, and/or subject area

8. Daily schedule including children going to special areas

9. Teacher’s plans

10. Teaching materials and equipment

11. Crisis Management Plan

NOTE TO SUBSTITUTE: If these things are not available, please contact the school office.

DISCIPLINE

Under no circumstances are substitutes to use CORPORAL punishment or to physically or verbally abuse a

student. All discipline problems the substitute cannot handle should be referred to the school office.

FAILURE TO ADHERE TO THIS POLICY WILL RESULT IN YOUR REMOVAL FROM SUBSTITUTE

TEACHING.

As a substitute, you will be encountering many new and different situations during your time in the classroom.

Regardless of the situation, you will find it most important that you quickly establish the proper atmosphere

necessary for a classroom to function properly. You should manage the classroom with a good “common” sense

approach and should treat students with the same respect that you expect from them. You should remember that

you might return to a particular teaching situation on several occasions. If you have established your reputation as

a substitute who means business, your teaching days will be most enjoyable.

Should you be confronted with a disciplinary problem you cannot handle, contact the school principal or

assistant principal immediately. If a student is creating a problem that warrants his immediate removal

from the class, do so only after you direct him to report to the school office. You should notify the school

office immediately by sending a note stating the particular problem (with another student).

NEVER LEAVE STUDENTS UNATTENDED!!

Suggested ways to avoid discipline problems:

1. Do what you say you will do–be consistent

2. Idle threats are just that; avoid making them.

3. Losing your cool only adds to the problem.

4. Create an atmosphere conducive to learning.

5. You, the substitute teacher, are in charge of the class; verbal battles and power struggles should be avoided.

6. Show an interest in the students and the things they consider important.

7. Retain your sense of good humor–smile!

8. Keep the voice well modulated (loudness on your part is conducive to loudness on their part).

9. Always expect the best from the students.

10. Be patient, friendly, understanding, fair and firm.

11. Prepare well-planned lessons.

12. Maintain a good personal appearance.

13. Have proper heat, ventilation and light.

WICOMICO COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

SUBSTITUTE SALARY SCALE

FY 2017-2018

RATE

PER DAY

RATE PER DAY

with Completed

Training

TEACHER/ASSISTANTS

With minimum of 30 credit hours but less than a bachelor’s degree $ 75 $ 82

With bachelor’s degree or more $ 85 $ 92

Retired teachers $ 95 $102

LONG-TERM SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS (Minimum of 4 consecutive weeks)

Bachelor’s degree *certifiable in field assigned $116 $122

Bachelor’s degree *certifiable but not in field assigned $106 $112

Bachelor’s degree but not *certifiable $ 101 $107

Assistant w/30 credits $ 85 $ 92

Assistant w/BS degree $ 95 $102

* Certifiable = Graduate of an approved teacher education program

All rates will be paid based on current information on file with Human Resources. Any changes in pay rate will be

adjusted forward from date appropriate documentation is received; i.e. transcripts, verification of experience, etc.

If you have received your college degree, Maryland certificate, or Ed Online Training certificate of completion, please submit a

copy to the Human Resources Department so that you may be placed on the appropriate salary scale for substitute teachers.

The salary change will be made effective the first day of the following pay period.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS AND THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT

Due to employer mandate requirements of the federal health care reform law (the Patient Protection and Affordable

Care Act of 2010 or “PPACA”) and the associated penalty taxes, the Wicomico County Board of Education

(WBCOE) implemented the following changes effective April 15, 2013 for non-benefitted staff. Non-benefitted

staff includes coaches, substitutes, and contractual employees.

➢ Substitute teachers are limited to a maximum of 18 days per month. The only exception is for long term

substitute teacher positions.

➢ Substitute teachers may only hold one (1) job with WCBOE (i.e. if you are hired to do a contractual

assignment you may not continue to substitute).

Please note that due to these changes substitutes must apply for vacancies an external applicant through

Applitrack on the WCBOE webpage.

SIGN IN AND SIGN OUT PROCEDURES

AND

KRONOS SWIPING INSTRUCTIONS

FULL DAY ASSIGNMENT:

1. Sign in and sign out in school office (mandatory)

2. Kronos swipe in and swipe out at time clock (mandatory)

** (you do not need to enter your job number for full day assignments) **

➢ Swipe badge upon arrival at school.

➢ Swipe badge upon completion of assignment.

HALF DAY ASSIGNMENT:

1. Sign in and sign out in school office (mandatory)

(If you have 2 half day assignments at different schools you will need to sign in and sign out at both

schools)

2. Kronos procedures when working one half day assignment per day. (mandatory)

➢ Swipe badge upon arrival at school.

➢ Swipe badge upon completion of assignment.

3. Kronos procedures when working two half day assignments on the same day.

Kronos Procedure for Job # 1 (in the a.m.)

• Swipe badge upon arrival at school.

• Swipe badge upon completion of assignment.

Kronos Procedure for Job # 2 (in the p.m.)

• Enter job confirmation number when swiping in to 2nd assignment.

• Swipe badge upon completion of 2nd assignment.

KRONOS FAQ’s

Do I still need to sign-in with my payroll number in the school’s main office?

Yes, it is mandatory to sign in and out.

How critical is it for me to remember to enter my job # in Kronos for payroll purposes when working a half

day (1/2) assignment?

Very critical. The job number matches up to a pay batch in the Kronos payroll system, which in turn initiates

payment for the assignment. The school’s main office should have a daily listing of the job #’s as well as the

names of the substitutes who have accepted the assignments.

What happens if I accept a verbal assignment and upon arriving at the school find that the job has not been

entered in Absence Management?

Swipe in and swipe out as usual. The bookkeeper will correct your time in Kronos.

What happens if I have already swiped in using a job number that I accepted through Absence Management

and the school administrator assigns me to a different assignment with a new job number?

You do not have to swipe again to the new job number. The bookkeeper will correct your time in Kronos.

What if I arrive at a school and I have forgotten my ID badge?

You will need to speak to the bookkeeper so that she/he can enter your time in Kronos. You should also obtain a

visitor’s badge from the school’s main office for identification purposes. You will still be required to sign in and

out.

What is the procedure if I accept an assignment that requires me to travel to multiple schools but is listed

under one job number?

Initial school: sign in and swipe in. Last school: sign out and swipe out.

SALARY PAYMENTS

1. Salary payments for all substitute employees will be made through the Board of Education payroll system.

Pay Date For Days Worked

09/15/17 08/16/17 – 08/31/17

09/29/17 09/01/17 – 09/15/17

10/13/17 09/16/17 – 09/30/17

10/31/17 10/01/17 – 10/15/17

11/15/17 10/16/17 – 10/31/17

11/30/17 11/01/17 – 11/15/17

12/15/17 11/16/17 – 11/30/17

12/28/17 12/01/17 – 12/15/17

01/12/18 12/16/17 – 12/31/17

01/31/18 01/01/18 – 01/15/18

02/15/18 01/16/18 – 01/31/18

02/28/18 02/01/18 – 02/15/18

03/15/18 02/16/18 – 02/28/18

03/29/18 03/01/18 – 03/15/18

04/13/18 03/16/18 – 03/31/18

04/30/18 04/01/18 – 04/15/18

05/15/18 04/16/18 – 04/30/18

05/31/18 05/01/18 – 05/15/18

06/15/18 05/16/18 – 05/31/18

06/29/18 06/01/18 – 06/15/18

Wicomico County Board of Education requires a mandatory direct deposit for all employees. If a completed direct

deposit form is not submitted to payroll by the end of the second pay period after initial hire, a paycard will be

issued to that employee. Adequate notice (15 days) must be given for the original authorization to take effect, to

withdraw from the plan, or for a change in bank account, or banking institution. Employees may elect to have their

checks deposited in a checking or savings account, or combination thereof. Authorization forms are available at the

Northgate Drive office or from any school office.

Newly hired substitute teachers may pick up their initial pay check from the receptionist at the Northgate Drive

office prior to 4:00 pm on the above pay dates. Checks not picked up will be mailed on the next working day. All

future salary payments will be made through the direct deposit and will be available for viewing on employee

online.

It is recommended that substitutes keep accurate and thorough records pertaining to when and where they report for

substituting, and compare that information to their salary payment. Any discrepancies should be referred to the

Payroll Department (410-677-4498 /4436 /4590).

WORKER’S COMPENSATION INSURANCE

1. All substitute teachers are covered by Workers’ Compensation during the school hours for which they are

employed.

2. Should an injury occur, immediate notification must be given to the school nurse so a claim can be filed.

TAX-SHELTERED ANNUITY PROGRAMS

403(b) Plan Statement

A 403(b) Plan, also known as a tax-sheltered annuity (TSA) plan, is a retirement plan for employees of

public schools. There are benefits to contributing to a 403(b) Plan. The first benefit is that you do not pay

income tax on allowable contributions until you begin making withdrawals from the plan, usually after

you retire. The second benefit is that earnings and gains on amounts in your 403(b) account are not taxed

until you withdraw them. Once you enroll, contributions are made under a salary reduction agreement

which allows your employer to withhold money from your paycheck to be contributed directly into a

403(b) account for your benefit. There are limits on the amount of contributions that can be made to your

403(b) account each year. You can enroll in the 403(b) plan and make changes at any time during the

year. Employees who contribute to their 403(b) account will be eligible for an employer 401(a) match.

Lincoln Financial Group is the sole provider for the WCPS 403(b) Plan. You have the option of choosing

your investments from an array of mutual funds. In addition to the core mutual funds, participants will

also have the option of investing in 15 LifeSpan allocation models. These time based asset allocation

models provide participants with a pre-selected, diversified mix of the core mutual funds which are

allocated to align with your target retirement or distribution date. They are automatically rebalanced each

year and become more conservative as you approach your target retirement age.

457(b) Plan Statement

A 457(b) Plan is a non-qualified tax-deferred compensation plan. Lincoln Financial Group is the sole

provider for the WCPS 457(b) Plan. Employees set aside money for retirement on a pretax basis. Once

you enroll, contributions are made under a salary reduction agreement which allows your employer to

withhold money from your paycheck to be contributed directly into a 457(b) account for your benefit. The

457(b) contributions grow tax free until withdrawal at retirement or termination of employment.

Wicomico County Board of Education does not make any matching contributions to employee

contributions to the 457(b) Plan. There are limits on the amount of contributions that can be made to your

457(b) account each year. You can enroll in the 457(b) plan and make changes at any time during the

year.

401 (a) Matching Plan Statement

The 401(a) Matching Plan is a tax-deferred retirement savings plan. The Board will automatically enroll

you in the Plan when you sign up for the 403(b) Tax Shelter Annuity Program. The Board may make

employer contributions on behalf of employees who contribute to a 403(b) through a payroll deduction.

The annual contribution is determined by the Board and amount of the contribution may change from year

to year.

Lincoln Financial Retirement Consultant

Shesly Gouraige is the Lincoln Financial Retirement Consultant for WCBOE. He has office hours at WCBOE’s

Central Office on Thursdays from 2pm to 6pm. Go to the online scheduler at www.lfg.com/WICOMICOschedule

and select from the available time slots.

Once you’ve set up your meeting, you'll receive a confirmation email, as well as, a reminder email the day before

the appointment. Appointments are thirty (30) minutes in length and are held at the Central Office building at 2424

Northgate Drive, Suite 100.

Shesly Gouraige can be reached at 1.844.699.2729 or by e-mail at Shesly.Gouraige@LFG.com .

WICOMICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 403(b) PLAN

UNIVERSAL AVAILABILITY NOTICE - 2017

This notice is required to be provided annually to all employees and provides important information regarding the 403(b) plan in which you are eligible to participate (the “plan”).

You may want to take this opportunity to either (1) begin making pre-tax and/or Roth 403(b) elective deferral contributions or (2) review your current elections and decide if you want to make changes. Before making any initial elections or changes, be sure to consult the written plan and any other materials provided to you that explain the terms of the plan.

When can I enroll?

You are eligible to enroll immediately upon your date of hire or any time thereafter. You may choose your initial elective deferral rate by visiting LincolnFinancial.com, meeting with a Lincoln Financial Retirement Consultant or speaking with a Lincoln Financial Customer Service Representative by phone at 1.800.234.3500. The Lincoln Financial Retirement Consultant for Wicomico County Public Schools is Shesly Gouraige and he can be reached at 1.844.699.2729 or Shesly.Gouraige@LFG.com . Schedule an appointment with Mr. Gouraige by using the on online scheduler at www.lfg.com/WICOMICOschedule and select from the available time slots. Your appointment will be held at the Central Office building at 2424 Northgate Drive, Salisbury, MD 21801.

Can I change or stop my elective deferral contributions?

You may change your elective deferral contributions daily during the plan year. You are permitted to revoke or cancel your election at any time during the plan year. When are my elective deferral contributions effective? After completing the enrollment requirements, your elective deferral contributions will begin on the next pay period or as soon as administratively possible.

What is the maximum amount that I can contribute?

The Internal Revenue Code limits the annual contributions you can make to a 403(b) plan and the limits are adjusted each year. The 2017 limits are as follows:

• Elective deferral limit $18,000.00 • Age 50 catch-up $ 6,000.00 • 15 years of service catch-up $ 3,000.00*

* The 15 years of service catch-up contribution applies before the age 50 catch-up contribution and is based on a formula that takes into account all past contributions to the plan and the employee's total years of service to the employer. The maximum allowable for the 15 years of service catch-up is $3,000 per year up to a $15,000 lifetime benefit, but an employee's actual catch-up may be lower than this maximum.

Will my employer make additional contributions?

In addition to your pre-tax and/or Roth 403(b) elective deferral contributions, the plan may allow for additional employer contributions. Please see your written plan for additional contributions that may be available to you under the plan.

Whom do I contact for additional information?

To learn more about 403(b) plans, please visit http://www.irs.gov and search for Publication 571. If you have any questions about how the plan works or your rights and obligations under the plan, please contact your plan administrator at:

Tina M. Vincent, Lead Human Resource Specialist 2424 Northgate Dr., Suite 100 P.O. Box 1538 Salisbury, MD 21802-1538 410-677-4578 tvincent@wcboe.org

GENERAL POLICIES

FINGERPRINTING AND CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK

All costs incurred in the completion of fingerprinting and criminal record check will be paid by the applicant at the

time of fingerprinting.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL CONVICTION POLICY

ADM-HRR-PL-011, Disclosure of Criminal Conviction Policy

EMPLOYEE ALCOHOL, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE AND DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY

ADM-HRR-PL018, Employee Alcohol, Controlled Substance, and Drug-Free Workplace Policy

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION

Any person hired after November 6, 1986, must complete Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, by

authority of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1324A. This form is used to verify an individual’s eligibility for

employment in the United States and must be completed within three (3) working days from the date of hire.

Failure to complete said form and present documents necessary to prove eligibility for employment in the United

States will constitute a violation of your employment with the Wicomico County Board of Education and may call

for your immediate dismissal.

HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY & PROCEDURE

ADM-HRR-PL-024, Harassment and Sexual Harassment Policy

ADM-HRR-PR-004, Harassment and Sexual Harassment Procedure

IDENTIFICATION BADGES

It is expected that all employees, volunteers, and anyone who regularly works in or visits our school

system buildings or schools will wear identification badges and abide by the following rules and

procedures:

1. All school system employees who work in a school or school system building must wear a Board

issued identification badge verifying that they are approved to be in the school system building. This

identification badge must be worn so that it is clearly visible to others.

2. Substitutes and contractual employees must wear a Board issued identification badge. Substitute and

contractual identification badges will have an expiration date at the end of each school year. If the

substitute or contractual employee returns to work the following school year, a new identification

badge will be issued with a new expiration date.

3. Wearing the proper identification DOES NOT preclude a person from reporting to the school or

school system building reception area. It is still the responsibility of all visitors to that school system

building (this includes employees that do not work in that specific building) to report to the reception

area.

4. At the same time the identification badge is issued, the employee will receive the identification card

and a clip. If the employee wishes to use any other apparatus to display the badge, that is permissible;

however, the employee is responsible for obtaining that apparatus. It will not be issued or replaced by

the WCBOE.

5. The employee is responsible for the care of the badge at all times. The badge should not be used for

other purposes, which may damage the badge or prohibit it from being read by the Kronos (time and

attendance) equipment.

6. In no way should the identification badge picture be defamed or altered in such manner that the badge

cannot be identified or utilized for its intended purpose. The area supervisor has the right to determine

if personalization of the employee’s identification badge has exceeded the intent of the identification

badge. (Example: Employee’s appearance has been drastically altered, etc.)

7. If a badge does get misplaced or damaged to the extent it will no longer scan, the employee must

request a new badge using the “Request for a New ID Badge” form. The replacement fee for the

badge will be payroll deducted from the employee’s next paycheck. The replacement fee does not

pertain to those badges that require issuance each school year for substitutes and contractual

employees. Any required reissue for name change, location change, etc., will be done at no charge.

8. Any questionable condition of the badge will be determined by the Human Resources Department. If

a badge has to be replaced numerous times due to damage or misuse by the employee, disciplinary

action may result.

9. Employees are to return identification badges when they separate from employment. Failure to return

an identification badge may result in the withholding of accrued salary or the employee’s separation

may be considered “not in good standing” until it is turned in.

10. Anyone failing to properly wear an identification badge must be reported immediately to the building

or school reception area where an administrator will question them.

11. The identification badge is intended for the sole use of the employee who is identified on the badge.

An employee’s identification badge shall never be used by another employee for any reason.

12. Failure to abide by these rules and procedures may result in disciplinary action.

REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT POLICY & PROCEDURE

SFS-GEN-PL-002, Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect Policy

SFS-GEN-PR-022, Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect Procedure

ACCEPTABLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICY

ADM-TEC-PL-004, Acceptable Use of Technology Policy

WCBOE SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

ADM-HRR-PL-019, WCBOE Social Media Policy

TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOLS POLICY

BOE-GEN-PL-011, Tobacco-Free Schools Policy

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE AND BLOODBORNE PATHOGEN POLICY

SFS-HEA-PL-004, Communicable Disease and Bloodborne Pathogen Policy

HEPATITIS B VACCINATION STATEMENT

All employees who have been identified as having exposure to blood or other potentially infectious

materials will be offered the hepatitis B vaccine, at no cost to the employee. The vaccine will be offered

within ten (10) working days of their initial assignment to work which involves the potential for

occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. This does not apply if the

employee has previously had the vaccine or wishes to submit to antibody testing which shows the

employee to have sufficient immunity.

Employees who decline the hepatitis B vaccine will sign a waiver. Employees who initially decline the

vaccine, but who later wish to have it may then have the vaccine provided at no cost.

SCHOOL CRISIS PLAN 2017-2018

Code Emergency Actions

Normal All Clear Return to normal operations. Specific instructions

will accompany this announcement.

Safe in Place

Safe in Place-To be used after

a Lockdown situation. If a

potential physical threat exists

around a school but it has

been determined that the

inside school environment is

potential safe, this Code can

be used.

All students in portable classrooms should remain in

place. All external doors should be locked. No one

is permitted to enter or leave the building. All

internal doors remain locked. No students or staff

members are to be in the halls unless instructed to be

there by Administration. Blinds and curtains on

windows should be closed. Monitor email and

mobile radios. Instruction should proceed as

routinely as possible. Safe in Place will remain in

effect until Administration is notified by the proper

authorities to go to a different level of security.

Debriefing session will follow.

Lockdown

Unknown threat inside or

around the school-this code

will be announced when it is

necessary to go into lock

down situation. This would

include when drug dogs are

brought into the building or if

a violent act has been

committed in or around the

building.

All students in portable classrooms should remain in

place. Any students outside the main building are

brought inside. All internal and external doors are

locked immediately. All staff and students are

removed from hallways and public access areas.

Any staff member who has a student in their

presence who is not normally assigned to them

should report the names of the students to the office

as soon as possible via radio, email, or phone. Keep

communication with the office on an “Emergency

Need” only. Monitor email and mobile radios. No

one is to leave or enter the school under this code.

All blinds or curtains on the windows should be

closed. Staff and students need to be taken to their

designated safe area, unless otherwise notified.

Administrator will advise staff periodically about the

status of the situation. This code will remain in

effect until the administration notifies the staff of a

different level of security. Debriefing session will

follow.

Substitute Teacher Handbook 2017-2018