I am applying for a loan through the Teachers Retirement System. How will I go about making the payments? The only way to repay a TRS loan is through payroll deduction. Be sure to keep track of your deductions and every so often check with TRS to be sure that your payments are being forwarded by the district in a timely manner.

If I am on an unpaid leave can I participate in Will Day? No, when you are on an unpaid leave you are not covered by any of the benefits that are administered by the MTA Benefit Fund unless you make COBRA payments. Contact the MTA Benefit Fund (344-2074) for details.

I will be completing my Masters program this summer. What do I need to do to start receiving the Masters stipend? You should have your college send an official transcript to the personnel office as soon as possible. This way you can receive your Masters stipend along with receiving pay for any prior-approved courses that you completed.

This summer I plan to leave teaching (not retiring). Is there any way I can continue to participate in the insurance programs through NYSUT Member Benefits? You can continue these insurance policies if you join NYSUT as an Associate Member-Continuing NYSUT Member Benefits. Contact NYSUT Member Benefits Trust (800-626-8101) for details.

E-mail your questions to: questions@middletownteachers.org.