I am currently taking an in-service course. Will I receive compensation for the course in my last check in June? No, you will not receive any compensation this school year for the spring course. Credit for courses (grad and in-service) completed in the spring and summer will start in September provided that you had submitted a prior approval form and a transcript is sent to personnel by September 1.

I am thinking about retiring next month. What dental insurance will I have in retirement? The district provided dental insurance does not continue into retirement. You can COBRA the district dental for a period up to 18 months. You will be responsible for 100% of the premiums. There is also the option of signing up for NYSUT dental coverage. You get the best benefit of the NYSUT plan if you start coverage immediately upon retirement or at the conclusion of any COBRA coverage. Visit the MTA office to secure NYSUT dental brochures.

I have been in the district for 4 years but don’t recall contributing to the Sick Bank. Is the Sick bank in existence? Yes, the Sick Bank is operational, but the reason you don’t recall contributing is that contract language negotiated in 2001 ceased all contributions as long as the balance in the Sick Bank was at least 4,000 days. Since you have been in the district there has been no contribution. Should the balance fall below 4,000 days then all teachers would contribute 1 day at the start of the next school year.

I am expecting my first child and am wondering how to apply for a Child Care Leave. Teachers who are considering a CCLV should first contact the MTA office and speak with Sheila Esposito. Each member has unique situations concerning personal health, date of delivery, time for return and the need for carrying health coverage for their family.

Any questions regarding retirement, salary, or the Benefit Fund, may be e-mailed to: questions@middletownteachers.org. All questions will receive a reply; some may appear in future newsletters. Visit our archives at: middletownteachers.org!