1. Abandonment of Contract
Recommendations From Task Force
Bootstrap
October 20, 2016

2. Why is this a problem? Teachers say contracts are unfair
School systems control the language, can reduce days, change assignments, and add liquidated damages
Teachers are forced to sign contracts earlier and earlier
Georgia is experiencing a shortage of teachers

3. Why is this a problem?
Administrators say contracts are not fair because teachers sign and break contracts
School system saved the position and now is trying to find replacement at the last minute
One metro area school system lost 600 teachers after June 1
Kids are the ones who suffer because often times, the position is not filled

4. Recommendations
Eliminate Standard 8 and incorporate wording in Standard 10 to capture breach of contract
Use phrase “Breach of Contract” instead of “Abandonment”
Emphasize “Breach of Contract” could be done by school system as well as Educator
Continue current interpretation of “PSC” will not sanction certificate if resignation submitted prior to June 1

5. Recommendations
After June 1, PSC will not sanction certificate for the following reasons:
Transfer of Spouse that requires unreasonable commute
Illness in the family which requires educator to care for family member
Promotion in the field of education that meets the following criteria: increase in job responsibility, increase in prestige, and an appropriate and reasonable increase in salary

6. Recommendations
Payment of Liquidated damages by educator is not considered a release from contract
School Systems are encouraged to work with educators for a smooth transition
Educators are expected to honor their contracts
Breach of Contract is defined as “not being released from contract and not meeting the criteria” established by the PSC

7. Process Presented draft to Commission in October
Ethics Staff and Executive Staff will review, edit, and wordsmith to put in appropriate format for our rule making
Attorneys and Professional Organizations will provide input
Presentations will be made to get feedback from the field
Bring to Commissioners in January/February as a recommendation