Record of Policy Manual Changes (United States) December 4, 2012

Transcription

1 Record of Policy Manual Changes (United States) December 4, 2012 Section 1-1 (December 4, 2012) Administrative Documents There are four distinct types of S&I administrative documents: Handbooks Handbooks give guiding principles from the standard works, the words of the modern prophets, the Church Board of Education, and the S&I administration. Key Black Original Blue Revised Red Deleted Manuals Manuals include the policy manual, inservice training manuals, teacher manuals, and student manuals. Guides Guides contain procedures for implementing some of the information contained in the manuals. Correspondence Memos and other correspondence provide clarification of policy, announcements, requests, and so forth. Section 1-1 (December 4, 2012) Program Names The program name of a new seminary, institute of religion, or coordinator assignment should be recommended by the area director to S&I Information Services for approval. Proposals that do not conform to this program names policy must be approved by the Administrative Council. When the name has been approved, it becomes the official name and should thereafter be used on all official documents, class schedules, reports, directories, telephone listings, physical facility records, envelopes, letterhead stationery, business cards, and so forth. The standard S&I envelopes, letterhead stationery, and business cards with the approved S&I logo should be used by all S&I programs. These may be ordered from S&I Materials and Resource Services using the Stationery Order (00007SI). Note: The term LDS is not to be used as part of any program name nor is it to be listed on official documents, listings, envelopes, letterhead stationery, or business cards. The standard two-letter U.S. Postal Service abbreviations for states (such as AZ and UT) should be used. Campus Program (Released-Time Seminary) Program Names 1. When there is only one program in a city, the program should be named after the city and state (for example, the Flagstaff AZ Seminary). All junior seminary programs (serving only ninth-grade students) should include the word Junior in the program name. The only time the word Senior should be included is when a junior seminary and a senior seminary are in the same city (for example, the Flagstaff AZ Junior Seminary and the Flagstaff AZ Senior Seminary).

2 2. When more than one seminary program is located in a city, the name of the city and state and a geographical or other identifying feature should be used (for example, the Salt Lake City UT West Seminary or the Mesa AZ Aztec Seminary). 3. A seminary program may be named after a geographical or unique local feature or an individual even if a public school is also named after the same feature or person (for example, the Bountiful Utah Mueller Park Junior Seminary or the Idaho Falls ID Clair E. Gale Junior Seminary). 4. A released-time seminary program name should not include the name of the stake or ward served by the program. 5. Program names should not include typical public school designations, such as High, High School, 9 th, or Ninth. Stake Seminary Program Names Stake seminary programs should be named after the stake in which the classes meet, without including the word stake in the program name (for example, the Memphis TN Stake Seminary or the Memphis TN North Stake Seminary). Campus Institute of Religion Program Names Campus Iinstitute of religion program names are to be in compliance with the letter and spirit of statutes concerning the legal use of public school names. For example, the name of a public institution may not be used to promote or enhance a nonaffiliated organization (such as CES&I), nor can phrases such as serving students at UCLA (or some other public institution) be used. In institute class schedules and catalogs, it is permissible to include a phrase such as located near the UCLA campus or across the street from the University of Idaho or adjacent to USC. When the name or initials of a college or university are used this way in an institute document, however, a disclaimer such as not affiliated with UCLA must also be included. In catalogs describing multiple institute programs, the disclaimer should be located in the introductory portion of the catalog in large or bold type and again in regular type next to the listing of each institute program. The following are additional guidelines for campus-based institute program names: 1. When there is only one institute program in a city and it is adjacent to a college or university, it should be named after the city and state (for example, the program located in Cheney Washington that is in the Spokane Washington West Stake and adjacent to and serving students attending Eastern Washington University is named the Cheney WA Institute of Religion). 2. When more than one of these adjacent programs is located in a city, the name of the city and state and a special geographical or other identifying feature should be used (for example, the Los Angeles CA Westwood Institute of Religion or the Los Angeles CA East Institute of Religion). 3. Institute of religion programs that are not adjacent to a college or university but serve postsecondary students or non-postsecondary young single adults ages eighteen through thirty in one stake, should use the name of the stake without including the word stake in the program name (for example, the Memphis TN North Institute of Religion). 4. When one of these nonadjacent programs serves postsecondary students or nonpostsecondary young single adults ages eighteen through thirty in more than one stake, it

3 should use the name of the stake in which the classes meet, without including the word stake in the program name (for example, the Sandy UT Central Institute of Religion). 5. Program names should not include the official name of a college or university or the words college or university. Stake Institute Program Names An institute program that serves only one stake should use the name of the stake in the program name (for example, the Memphis TN North Stake Institute of Religion). An institute program that serves more than one stake should use the name of the stake in which the classes meet (for example, the Sandy UT Central Stake Institute of Religion). Coordinator Assignment Program Names Coordinator assignments may be given a pprogram names based on the name of the stake, city and state, state, or of coordinator assignments may be based on a stake name or the name of the larger geographical area being served by the coordinator (for example, the Charlotte NC Central coordinator, Atlanta GA ccoordinator, South Carolina ccoordinator, or New England ccoordinator). Section 1-5 (December 4, 2012) Annual Historical Report We keep annual histories according to the Lord s instruction to continue in writing and making a history of all the important things (D&C 69:3). Program administrators (seminary principals, institute directors, coordinators, country directors, and area directors) should keep an ongoing file of historical materials during each school year. Contents of these files become the primary source of historical information from which each year s annual historical summary is completed. Within two weeks of the close of each school year, program administrators (except area directors) complete and submit to their area office an Annual Local Program Historical Report. Within four weeks of the close of each school year, area offices review the received Local Program History Reports and then complete and submit to the central office an Annual Area Historical Report. At the end of the calendar year, each central office division completes and submits to the central office records coordinator an Annual Central Office Historical Report. Using the submitted documents, the central office records coordinator assists the administration in completing an Annual S&I Historical Report. A copy is provided to the Church Historical Department. Detailed instructions for preparing and submitting historical records are located on the website under the help topic Area and Program Histories. Section 2-4 (December 4, 2012) Distribution of Copyrighted Materials Distribution of copyrighted materials in any form requires the authorization of the Church Correlation, Intellectual Property Office Division (IPDO) of the Church. (Distribution is defined as sharing copyrighted material with anyone else, including students and S&I teachers and

4 administrators.) Those who distribute copyrighted materials without IPDO authorization will be held personally liable. Unless otherwise noted, authorization has been given for distribution of excerpts from written Church publications. The S&I Publishing Product Management Division IPO has been given the responsibility by S&I the Church to work with copyright owners in obtaining the necessary permissions and approvals. S&I teachers and administrators are not to contact or negotiate with individual copyright owners. A Clearance to Distribute Copyrighted Materials form (00289SI) is available on the S&I website for use when requesting IPO authorization prior to distributing copyrighted materials. This form must be submitted through the appropriate S&I channels well in advance so that IPO authorization might be obtained (central office personnel are the only S&I employees authorized to work directly with IPO). Guidelines for Usinge an Individual s Name, Likeness, or of Image Voluntary Written Consent. Except as otherwise stated below, an individual must give voluntary, written consent before Under general law, each individual has a legal right to prevent the use of his or her name, voice, likeness, and/or image (whether in a still or motion picture) in a way that implies endorsement or approval by the individual of a product or message or that commercially benefits someone, unless the individual consents to that use is included in any Church Product. The Church s standard Release to Use Image form (PD [or in non-english languages]), or an alternate form approved by the Church Correlation, Intellectual Property Division, should be used to obtain this consent. In addition, if the individual is a minor child, consent must be obtained from the individual s parent or legal guardian. Church policy requires that consent be obtained prior to using an image in any case where one of the following applies: 1. An image shows a named, generally recognizable group (such as a musical or political group). 2. An individual in an image is recognizable by those who are casually acquainted with the individual, and one of the following applies: a. The individual is a public figure or celebrity b. The image includes less than 25 people. If consent would be required under the above policy from a child under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian of that child must give consent. Written Consent Not Required. An individual s name, likeness, or image may be used without written consent in the following limited circumstances: 1. Individual Not Recognizable a. Consent is not needed to use an individual s image or likeness if it is not recognizable to members of the general public who are acquainted with the person. For example, images that have been digitally altered to mask the individual s identity, images of individuals who are part of a wide shot of a street scene, and images of individuals viewed from behind or where only a hairstyle or a hand is visible, will very rarely be recognizable. b. The image or likeness of a famous person should always be treated as recognizable even if only a portion of them is visible. It is generally best to error on the side of

5 obtaining written consent from any famous person who is known to be included in an image. 2. Certain Limited Uses in a Specific Context a. News Reporting: When an image is used solely to report on a newsworthy event, written consent is not required for individuals who are participants or bystanders at the event (including famous persons as defined above). Such events may, for example, include general conferences, temple dedications, or humanitarian projects. In the absence of written consent from the individuals depicted, Church use will be limited to reporting on the specific newsworthy event. b. Documentary Images of a Church Event: Written consent is not required for the following individuals appearing in images that are used to show an actual, real-life (not re-created or re-enacted) Church event: i. Audience members, observers, and bystanders at a public Church event such as a musical or dramatic performance, religious gathering, building dedication, fireside, or press conference. ii. Non-featured, voluntary participants in a Church meeting, namely: 1. Individuals who conducted the meeting, introduced a speaker, offered a prayer, and/or presented an award; and 2. Individuals who participated in, directed, or accompanied a choir organized specifically for that particular meeting. The circumstances must make it clear that these participants understood that the meeting was being broadcast live and/or recorded for possible future use by the Church. (On the other hand, written consent should be obtained from speakers, presenters, soloists, guest artists, established musical groups, and other featured participants in Church meetings.) iii. Some additional notes and cautions regarding documentary images: 1. In the absence of written consent from the individuals depicted, the Church s use of a documentary image will be limited to the context of the specific event (or class of events) depicted in the image. Further, apart from accurately depicting attendance at or participation in a Church meeting or event, such images should not be used in a manner that suggests that an individual endorses or supports the Church or its activities. 2. Images may not be used on the covers of magazines, brochures, pamphlets, or media holders (e.g., DVD cover art) without written consent from the individuals depicted. 3. Images depicting sensitive subjects should not be used without written consent from the individuals. Sensitive subjects may, for example, include unwed parents, addiction, or homosexuality. 4. A reasonable effort should be made to inform participants at Church events that the event is being broadcast live and/or recorded or photographed for possible future Church use. This should be done in a way that does not unduly intrude into the event. For example, a notice may be printed on the back of admission tickets or signs may be placed at the entrances to the venue. Verbal announcements may also be used, when appropriate, but they should not be used for Church meetings or other devotional gatherings.

6 5. Written consent should be obtained from all individuals appearing in formal photo shoots (photo illustrations). Similarly, written talent agreements should be obtained from all persons who have performance roles or other scripted parts. Examples of Non-Written Notices How to Obtain Consent A signed Release to Use Image form (37077) must be obtained in any case where consent is needed, except as noted below. 1. When a Church-sponsored event that includes a large number of people is to be photographed, videotaped, or broadcast, one of the follow three consent methods may be used: a. The following verbal announcement may be made at the beginning of the event, before any photography, videotaping, or broadcast begins: Written or recorded verification that this action has take place must be dated, signed, and then submitted by the product manager to the Intellectual Property Office (IPDO). b. If the event is ticketed, the following text may be printed on each ticket: 1. Ticket Notice: By attending this event, you consent to the use of your photograph, voice, likeness, and/or image in broadcasts of this event and in subsequent publications and productions drawn from photographs or video or audio recordings of this event. 2. Event Entrance Notice: (c. A placard may be displayed at each entrance to the venue, having the The text of the Legal Notice in the shaded box should be printed in at least one-inch type: Written or recorded verification that this action has taken place must be dated, signed, and then submitted by the product manager to the IPO. 3. Verbal Notice: This event is being broadcast on public and cable television stations and is being recorded for use in future print, audio, or video productions and broadcasts. By attending this Legal Notice This event is being recorded for use in possible future print, audio, or video productions, broadcasts, or cable television. The event may also be used in productions affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By attending this event, you consent to the use of your photograph, voice, likeness, and/or image in any such broadcasts or productions, in any media, in any location worldwide, without remuneration. If you do not consent to this use, do not attend this event. event, you consent to our use of your image and/or voice in these broadcasts and productions. Using Images from a Third Party Source 2.When images are provided by an independent contractor who is working under an approved contract that requires the contractor to obtain appropriate releases, no further documentation of consent is needed for those images. Using Images Already in the Church s Possession It may be virtually impossible to obtain an individual s consent to use for an image that is already in the Church s possession. In such cases S&I, through the S&I Publishing Product Management Division, the relevant department may seek permission decide to accept the risk of useing the image without consent after the IPDO has assisted them in quantifying that risk based on factors such as: A search of the IPDO s contract files for applicable Release to Use Image forms. A history of use without objection for a given image or individual. (A history of use consists of more than a one-time use.) The level of potential offense that might be taken from the intended use of the image.

7 The remoteness of the person shown from the market in which the image will be used. Statements by Church employees regarding the identity of the person shown in the image. When necessary, the IPDO may consult with the Office of General Counsel to assist in quantifying the risk so that the relevant department can make a fully informed decision about the risk of use versus the cost of replacing the image. Whenever If there is a question regarding the use of an image or obtaining consent, the teacher should notify his or her immediate supervisor. The supervisor will consult with his or her area director. The area director will counsel with his assistant administrator. If necessary, the assistant administrator will contact the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) for assistance. The assistant administrator will then let the area director know so he can inform his teacher that requires clarification, please contact the S&I Publishing Product Management Division. Section 3-2 (October 22, 2012) Released-Time Seminary During School Hours With the approval of the Church Board of Education and in cooperation with local Church school boards and public school administrators, released-time seminary can be established in some areas of the United States and Canada. Classes are held during school hours on each day school is in session. In some cases, in order to conform to the type of class schedule and/or length of class period of the adjacent public school, a different schedule is authorized. Classes are taught by, or under the direction of, full-time S&I teachers and administrators. Seminary classes should be organized with the same number of terms as the schools the students are attending (between 2 4 terms per year). Where this is not feasible, seminary should be organized with at least 2 terms per year. Section 3-5 (October 22, 2012) Stake Seminary Stake seminary is offered through (1) daily classes that meet outside of school hours when local schools are in session, or (2) home-study classes. Classes are usually organized within the ward or stake depending on the needs of the students. Classes should not be held on Sunday unless the Church Board of Education has given specific approval. Where possible, seminary classes should be organized with the same number of terms as the schools the students are attending (between 2 4 terms per year). Where this is not feasible, seminary should be organized with at least 2 terms per year. Section 3-5 (October 22, 2012) Daily Classes (formerly early morning seminary) Daily seminary classes are held outside of school hours should meet each day school is in session either before or after school. If a school holds classes six days a week, seminary classes should be held on five of those days. It is usually organized within the ward or stake depending on the need. The recommended class length is fifty minutes, with a minimum of forty minutes of instruction. Classes are generally taught by stake seminary teachers.

8 Section 3-5 (October 22, 2012) Home-Study Classes Home-study seminary classes can be organized in places where students cannot attend a daily class because of distance or other factors such as a disability. It is usually organized within the ward. Students are provided with S&I-prepared materials to assist in their daily are provided for (weekday) study at home. Students participate in one or more classes each week under the direction of a stake teacher to discuss their studies. Home-study students from several wards can meet together occasionally for instruction under the direction of the S&I representative. Under the direction of stake Young Men and Young Women leaders, an activity could be held in conjunction with this instruction. Classes should not be held on Sunday unless the Church Board of Education has given specific approval. Section 3-11 (October 22, 2012) [Seminary] Grades Every student who meets the attendance requirement is to be given credit and either an A, B, C, or D grade based on academic performance or a pass grade (P) (pass) grade. A failing grade (E or F) is not authorized. An incomplete (I) grade is to be given if a student has not met the attendance requirements to receive credit. Criteria for evaluating academic performance could include scripture reading outside of class and class participation in assignments, discussion, reviews, tests, and scripture mastery, and an understanding of the Basic Doctrines. Unauthorized absences in released-time seminary may reduce the grade. Area directors should ensure that the individual seminary programs principals, teachers in a building, and coordinators in an area, adopt implement relatively uniform grading standards consistent with S&I policy. Section 4-7 (October 22, 2012) Students Who Are Homebound (HB) A home-bound student is one who anticipates an absence of four weeks or longer due to a medical, mental, or emotional condition. Students who expect an absence shorter than four weeks or for other non-medical reasons should complete home-study assignments from their regular teacher to compensate for the absence. Where possible, S&I instructors should make frequent (at least weekly) contact with students who have extended absences. In released-time settings and in consultation with priesthood leaders, area directors may establish an adapted program for students who are home-bound. Regular S&I instructors are encouraged to work closely with instructors for the homebound during a student s transitional periods to ensure that student needs are met. Home-bound instructors should give a letter grade or a pass/incomplete credit grade (P) for the assignments completed during the period of absence from a regular class. An incomplete (I) grade is to be given if a student has not completed the course work assigned by the instructor. Particular attention should be given to matters of propriety if visits take place in student s home. Missionary couples are particularly suitable to fill home-bound assignments. Parents or other responsible adults should always be present during visits to a student s home.

9 Section 5-2 (December 4, 2012) Stake Institute Program Stake institute programs may be organized where existing campus institute classes are not readily accessible to ensure that all young single adults have a reasonable opportunity to attend institute. All young single adults, ages 18 30, can attend such classes. Stakes may also combine to offer classes on a multi-stake level. These programs typically follow the standard semester schedule with 2 3 terms per year. Section 5-3 (December 4, 2012) Campus Institute Program Campus institute programs are organized primarily to provide classes for LDS post-secondary students ages attending a particular campus or campuses and are independent of stake boundaries. Non-students may also attend. Classes should be organized with the same number of terms as the schools the students are attending. Programs are classified as either the standard semester schedule (with 2 3 terms per year) or the quarter system schedule (with 3 4 terms per year). Section 5-3 (October 22, 2012) Institute Programs with Declining Enrollments S&I Owned Facility If institute enrollments in term one decrease and enrollments drop below 50 LDS postsecondary students (ages 18 to 30) for two consecutive years, S&I will 1) consider surplusing any standalone institute building and holding classes in a local Church meetinghouse(s), or 2) arrange for classroom space at the associated institution of higher education. S&I Leased Facility S&I will consider terminating a lease and moving institute classes to a facility on a nearby campus or in a local meetinghouse in the following situations: When an institute program is leasing space for classes only (no coordinator office) and term one enrollments drop below 50 LDS post-secondary students (ages 18 to 30) for two consecutive years. When an institute program is leasing space for classes and a coordinator s office and term one enrollments drop below 30 LDS post-secondary students (ages 18 to 30) for two consecutive years. The coordinator s office will be relocated to a less expensive facility. Section 5-13 (December 4, 2012) Devotional or Lecture Series Classes for Campus-based Programs (Religion 031R) A devotional or lecture series class can provide an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the gospel and increase their faith and testimony by listening to approved guest speakers. Additionally, these classes provide a venue to introduce students who have not yet enrolled or who are not of our faith to the institute program. Similar to other institute

10 courses, the focus of these classes should be based on teaching and learning the gospel of Jesus Christ. They should also be based in the scriptures and the teachings of the latter-day prophets. Devotional or lecture series classes should meet frequently (normally weekly) with substantive instructional time that meets the required number of minutes per semester (see One-Credit Scripture Block Courses ). In order to receive credit for a devotional or lecture series class, students must register for the class (either online or by paper form) and attend 75 percent of the lectures. Students who attend devotionals or lectures without registering should be invited to register; otherwise they are considered as guests and are not to be enrolled in the class. Student enrollments from devotional or lecture classes are not included in requests for new facilities or FTE calculations. Depending on the needs and interests of the students, institute programs may choose to have an occasional approved guest speaker for enrichment purposes rather than creating a devotional or lecture series class. Activities organized to teach a skill, or to focus on a non-gospel-related topic (such as dancing, current events, meals, and so forth) should not be identified as an institute class. Section 5-21 (October 22, 2012) Institute Credit For a student to receive institute credit (which can only be transferred to other institutes), the class must meet the criteria specified under Institute Classes above, and the student must have a minimum of 75 percent attendance and complete the work assigned by the teacher. A letter grade (A, B, C, or D) or a pass grade (P) may be given. A grade based on academic performance or a pass grade (P) may be given. A failing grade (E or F) is not appropriate in any institute class. A course may be taken as an audit (AU) if the conditions listed in the section below are met. If course work is not completed, an incomplete (I) grade may be given. An incomplete (I) grade is to be given if a student has not met the requirements to receive credit. Teachers should take the initiative to work with students receiving incomplete grades to assist them in completing the course. Section 8-4 (December 4, 2012) Selling Old Vehicles S&I has the responsibility to sell the old vehicles assigned to their employees. However, Fleet Administration personnel are available to help in this effort. As soon as the vehicle is removed from service, it should be prepared as follows before it is offered for sale: It should to be serviced (lube, oil, and filter). It should to be detailed (thoroughly cleaned). Known mechanical problems should be fixed. It should be able to pass inspection. Tire tread should be at least 2/32. It should have good wiper blades. The windshield washer fluid should be full. The check engine light should not be on. Accident repairs over the size of a golf ball should be repaired.

11 Once the new vehicle is received, the old vehicle may be driven to help sell it but should not be used for personal or business use since mileage depreciates the value. The following three forms (contained in a packet located in the glove compartment of the car or from the area office) are for use in selling the old vehicle: The Condition of Church-owned Vehicle form (32202) should be completed as soon as you receive the new vehicle. Send it to Fleet Administration so that they can determine a selling price for the vehicle. They will advise you of the selling price. The Fleet Administration Bill of Sale form (33595) should be completed at the time of sale. The Odometer Discloser Statement form (33594) should be completed at the time of sale. It reflects the mileage at the time of the sale. Please note that the small boxes in the statement section are marked only if the odometer (mileage) is not accurate. The buyer must pay with certified funds such as a certified check or cashier s check. Personal checks or cash will not suffice. Call Fleet Administration for instructions on handling of funds and the above forms. Note: All Church vehicles are sold as is. This denotes that the seller is selling and the buyer is buying the vehicle in whatever condition it exists and that the buyer is accepting it with all faults, whether or not they are immediately apparent. Church Fleet Administration may be contacted if a major problem is identified within 30 days of the sale. Section (December 4, 2012) Extending the Job Offer For support staff positions, Tthe area director or division director, in consultation with the S&I human resource representative, will agree on the salary in accordance with established guidelines and will determine who will extend the job and salary offer to the selected candidate. Section (December 4, 2012) Role Descriptions Role descriptions are used to establish the essential functions of each job within Employer s organization and to assist in determining the value of each job. Role descriptions are necessary to assign wage and salary grade levels and compensation. All Employer S&I positions should have a role description on file. Compensation Employer s compensation program is designed to compensate employees fairly, while at the same time acknowledging a measure of consecration by those who earn their living in service to the Church. Compensation is based on the nature of the position and the location of the assignment. Employees may receive a position allowance, cost of living adjustment, or both. These additional pay components will change as assignments change Geographical Salary Administration Plans (SAPs) have been established across the United States for determining the cost-of-job in a particular geographical region. Employees working in similar positions will receive comparable compensation, regardless of gender, national origin, race, ethnic status, age, or disability. Compensation may vary based on experience, performance, awarded credentials, location, and/or length of service.

12 Grade Level Adjustments Grade level advancements take place at any time during the calendar year. A grade level advancement is initiated when a religious educator has met both time and effort requirements associated with a particular grade level. Section (December 4, 2012) S&I Religious Educator Salaries S&I teacher and administrator salaries are based on the following: 1. Time S&I and other work-related experience a. S&I full-time work experience b. Other Church affiliated entity full-time experience c. Years of relevant work experience credited at the time of full-time hire 2. Effort (see Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Credentials section) 3. Salary Administration Plan (SAP) Level of education. There are salary lanes for bachelor s degree, master s degree, and doctor s degree. 4. Assignment High Cost Area 5. Position allowances are provided to recognize additional administrative responsibilities for supervisory positions as determined by S&I administration. 6. Cost-of-living adjustments may be provided for some S&I assignments. The amount is determined annually. The cost-of-living adjustment is not transferred when a teacher moves to a new location. Salary Lane Change for Additional Education S&I encourage full-time religious educators to continue their formal education through a master s degree. Beyond a master s degree, individuals may continue their education towards a doctorate as their circumstances permit and according to individual desires. For an additional degree to qualify for a salary adjustment, the degree must be preapproved by the S&I Educational Assistance Committee. Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Credentials When combined with recognized years of experience, religious educators who complete all the requirements for an approved credential will be eligible for consideration for a salary adjustment. These credentials include the following: 1. Master s degree 2. Doctorate degree 3. Certification 1 4. Certification 2 If a salary adjustment is approved, the salary adjustment will be effective the pay period in which appropriate documentation is received by S&I Human Resource Services. For a master s or doctorate degree to qualify for a salary adjustment, the degree must be from an approved university program found in the current year Higher Education Directory (consult your S&I human resource representative).

13 Graduate Degrees Advanced degrees must be pre-approved by the Educational Assistance Committee to qualify for educational assistance and a grade level advancement. Only graduate programs from accredited universities are considered. The following is the order of preference the Educational Assistance Committee uses when reviewing education assistance applications: 1. Traditional classroom setting at a university or satellite campus within 50 miles of the work location. 2. Traditional classroom setting with less than one-half of the degree credit hours offered online. 3. Predominantly online setting that requires a cohort with students and professors communicating and interacting on a regular basis. 4. Online only setting. Note: Educational assistance is not an entitled benefit; it is a means to improve teacher/administrator capacity. Successful completion of the graduate degree will be determined upon receiving in the central office a copy of the diploma, a certified copy of credits taken, or a copy of an official letter from an accredited educational institute institution indicating that all required coursework related to the degree is completed. Employees who complete all the requirements for an approved Master s or Doctorate degree may be eligible for a grade level advancement, provided the time requirement for the next grade level has also been met. If the grade level advancement is warranted, the salary adjustment should be effective the pay period in which appropriate documentation is received by S&I Human Resource Services. Employee Salaries Salaries are determined by using the local Church salary administration plan structures and appropriate salary range based on their an employee s global grade level. Salaries are reviewed annually and any annual increase becomes effective in pay period six. Section (December 4, 2012) Early Retirement Transition Benefit The Church Board of Education has approved an Early Retirement Transition Benefit for employees who choose to retire between ages 55 to 65 and have at least ten (10) years of service with S&I or a related employer. Recipients must be eligible to receive Master Retirement Plan benefits. This plan is governed by the Seminary and Institutes of Religion Early Retirement Plan. Age Fifty-Five to Sixty-Two. If at the time of retirement the participant is fifty-five (55) to sixtytwo (62) years of age, the participant will receive the following Early Retirement Transition Benefit: During the first 12-month period following retirement, an amount equal to one third (33.3%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement, paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments. During the second 12-month period following retirement, an amount equal to one fourth (25%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement, paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments.

14 During the third 12-month period following retirement, an amount equal to one fifth (20%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement, paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments. Age Sixty-Three. If at the time of retirement the participant is sixty-three (63) years of age, the participant will receive the following Early Retirement Transition Benefit: During the first 12-month period following retirement, an amount equal to one third (33.3%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement, paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments. During the second 12-month period following retirement, an amount equal to one fourth (25%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement, paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments. Age Sixty-Four or Sixty-Five. If at the time of retirement the participant is sixty-four (64) or sixty-five (65) years of age, the participant will receive the following Early Retirement Transition Benefit: The lesser of: (a) an amount equal to one half (50%) of the participant s base salary (base pay and position allowance) during the 12-month period immediately preceding retirement or (b) an amount equal to the participant s Full Retirement Age (FRA) Social Security benefit multiplied by the number of full months until the participant reaches age sixty-six (66). If there will be 12 full months between a participant s retirement and reaching age sixty-six (66), the amount will be paid in twenty-six (26) equal bi-weekly payments. Otherwise, the amount will be paid in bi-weekly payments, with the number of payments equal to one half the number of full weeks between the participant s retirement and reaching age sixty-six (66). If a Participant has less than ten (10) years of service with S&I or a related employer at the time of retirement, the participant will receive a pro rata portion of the Early Retirement Transition Benefit that the participant would have received if the participant had completed ten (10) years of service with S&I or a related employer and qualified for the full Early Retirement Transition Benefit. The participant s pro rata Early Retirement Transition Benefit will be an amount equal to ten percent (10 percent) of the full Early Retirement Transition Benefit for each year of service the participant has completed with S&I or a related employer. The first bi-weekly Early Retirement Transition Benefit payment will be made within thirty (30) days of the participant s retirement, and shall continue until all required bi-weekly payments have been made. All early retirement transition benefits are intended to qualify as social security supplements for purposes of Section 4(l)(B)(ii) of the ADEA (29 U.S.C. 623(l)(B)(ii). If a Participant dies before receiving full payment of benefits, the remaining benefit will be paid to the participant s beneficiary in a single lump sum amount. Such payment shall be made within thirty (30) days of when S&I receives written notice of the participant s death. Section (December 4, 2012) Educational Assistance Religious Educators S&I values education and encourages all religious educators to complete at least a master s degree and to continue their professional growth throughout their career. To aid the employee in the pursuit of approved graduate degrees, S&I provides some educational assistance.

15 Eligibility S&I provides eeducational assistance is available for full-time S&I teachers and administrators who desire to pursue an approved graduate advanced degree. Apprentices however, must successfully complete the apprenticeship which includes the apprentice seminar (see S&I Apprenticeship ) before they are eligible to begin a graduate degree program and of become eligible for educational assistance. S&I employees are not eligible for educational assistance while on probation. To qualify for educational assistance, it is the responsibility of personnel to fully comply with the General Guidelines, Application Process, and Reimbursement Process listed below. Note: Newly hired religious educators must successfully complete either the Apprentice Program or the Coordination Certification Program before they are eligible to apply for educational assistance. General Guidelines 1. Graduate programs will be approved on the following three criteria: a. School accreditation The proposed school must be listed in the current edition of the Higher Education Directory which contains listings of accredited, degree-granting institutions of postsecondary education in the United States. b. Discipline or major S&I allows for programs geared to the individual s interest and ability as long as it will benefit S&I and strengthen the skills of the teacher. There is a broader acceptance for proposed master s degree programs, but a narrower acceptance for proposed doctorate programs. c. Delivery system Traditional programs for on-campus degrees are preferred by S&I. Degrees that are primarily distant delivery will not be approved. There may be exceptions granted where employees are assigned by S&I to locations where graduate programs are not readily available. A request for an exception may be made to the Educational Assistance Committee (EAC) in the central office. 2. To make the best use of limited S&I funds, personnel are encouraged to apply to other sources for grant or scholarship funds that may be available. If funds are received for tuition from other sources, the amount of S&I assistance will be limited to the per-credit-hour maximum minus the tuition portion of those grant or scholarship funds. 3. Educational assistance cannot exceed a total of twelve semester hours in a calendar year (January through December). Hours are counted in the year the course is started (if a course starts in December and ends in the new year, the semester hours are counted in the year the course started). 4. The dollar amount of assistance will be limited to the per-credit-hour maximum set each year by S&I. 5. No participant may be reimbursed by S&I for credits beyond the number of hours required by the institution for the degree being sought. Additionally, the total hours of assistance cannot exceed forty semester hours between a bachelor s and a master s degree and seventytwo semester hours between a master s and a doctoral doctorate degree. 6. Educational assistance is not available for a second master s degree. 7. Educational assistance may not be used to pay for the continuous hours of registration required in a graduate program unless actual courses are taken or the credit is used for the thesis or dissertation hours required by the program. Educational assistance for thesis or dissertation credit hours will not be provided beyond the minimum number required for the degree (therefore, dissertation extensions do not qualify for assistance).

16 8. Educational assistance will be granted for tuition and mandatory fees only. It may not be used to pay for books, optional fees, credit card fees, or penalties for late registration. 9. If a graduate degree program is not approved for educational assistance by S&I, then completion of the degree will may not qualify an employee for a grade level advancement lane change on the salary scale. S&I employees working on S&I approved graduate programs both master s and doctorate may take a class as part of their workday on an as necessary basis within the following guidelines: 1. When a required class is only offered during normal workday hours (i.e., no evening sections of the class are offered), S&I will make reasonable effort to accommodate class attendance as part of the workday. 2. The employee should work with his or her immediate supervisor and area director to determine how regular workload, inservice attendance, administrative responsibilities, and class attendance can best be coordinated. The employee must receive approval from both the immediate supervisor and area director before registering for any class which conflicts with an employee s work responsibilities. 3. This accommodation does not include Internet classes, reading classes, independent projects, internships, writing a thesis or dissertation, or classes that are not part of a graduate degree. 4. This accommodation applies to graduate classes taken any time during the year (those taken during the summer months as well as those taken during the school year). 5. This accommodation is not available to employees on Professional Development Leave (PDL). Section (December 4, 2012) Newly Hired Religious Educators All The primary objective of the S&I apprenticeship is to give early and effective support to newly hired religious educators are expected to participate in either the Apprentice Program or the Coordinator Certification Program. The primary objective of these programs is to provide early and effective support to newly hired religious educators and to give S&I the opportunity to continue to evaluate the performance of new teachers and to give S&I the opportunity to continue to evaluate the performance of new teachers. Some areas of focus during the apprenticeship would include the development of: 1. Excellence in teaching. 2. Gospel scholarship and purity of doctrine. 3. Appropriate and effective relationships with students, parents, priesthood leaders, S&I associates, and so forth. 4. An understanding of S&I religious education philosophy. 5. An understanding of S&I policies and procedures. Apprentice Program Religious educators hired through a preservice center and assigned to teach released-time seminary During the first summer of employment, teachers are expected to participate in the apprentice training program. During this two the first full year of teaching experience, new religious educators each teacher will work closely with a principal their supervisor and a mentor. They will complete assignments, make and receive classroom visits, and create an

17 apprentice portfolio. At the conclusion of each year the area director will make The mentor, the principal, and the area director will frequently visit and observe the teacher s classes during the school year. Following an evaluation in April or May, one of the following recommendations will be made: (1) the teacher has successfully completed the apprenticeship met all employment expectations and should continue employment, (2) the teacher has been placed on S&I probation, or (3) the teacher will not be considered for further employment with S&I. Successful completion of the Apprenticeship Program is accomplished when a teacher has been employed for at least eight full months two years, has met the expectations of the area director, has attended the Apprentice sseminar, and has not been placed on probation. Coordinator Certification Program Religious educators hired as coordinators, without having gone through a preservice center, are to participate in the Coordinator Certification Program. During this three year experience, new coordinators will work closely with a mentor, complete assignments, make and receive classroom and office visits, and create a coordinator portfolio. At the conclusion of each year the area director will make one of the following recommendations: (1) the coordinator has met all employment expectations and should continue employment, (2) the coordinator has been placed on S&I probation, or (3) the coordinator will not be considered for further employment with S&I. Successful completion of the Coordinator Certification Program is accomplished when a coordinator has been employed for at least three years, has met the expectations of the area director, has attended the Coordinator Certification Seminar (organized by the area or the central office), and has not been placed on probation. Pioneer Trails Workshop The Pioneer Trails Workshop is a one-time, six-day inservice experience. that follows the pioneer trail to Salt Lake City, It is for full-time S&I teachers, administrators, and their spouses. Apprentices, however, must successfully complete the apprentice program (see S&I Apprenticeship ) before they are eligible to apply for this workshop. Participation in the workshop will count as five working days. S&I employees may only participate once in this workshop during their S&I career. Further Additional information is available under Workshops on the S&I website (Administrative Resources / Training / S&I Workshops). Note: Newly hired religious educators must successfully complete either the Apprentice Program or the Coordination Certification Program before they are eligible to apply for the Pioneer Trails Workshop. Church History Workshop The Northeastern Church History Workshop and the Midwestern Church History Workshop are six-day inservice experiences that are held twice each year on alternating years. These workshops are for full-time S&I teachers, administrators, and their spouses. Apprentices, however, must successfully complete the apprentice program (see S&I Apprenticeship ) before they are eligible to apply for these workshops. Participation in these workshops will each count as five working days. S&I employees may only participate once in these workshops during their S&I career. Further Additional information is available under Workshops on the S&I website (Administrative Resources / Training / S&I Workshops). Note: Newly hired religious educators must successfully complete either the Apprentice Program or the Coordination Certification Program before they are eligible to apply for the Northeastern Church History Workshop or the Midwestern Church History Workshop.