144.5 Maternity Leave: Faculty

144.5 Maternity Leave: Faculty Maternity Leave: Faculty Originator: President File: 144.5 2/8/1988 Replaces: 000.0 00/00/1900

A. Background

Prior to February 8, 1988, Furman University had no written policy governing maternity leave in particular for full-time faculty. The present policy was established to provide a clear assurance and equitable practice in all cases.

B. Policy

The University will grant a full-time female faculty member leave of absence for maternity reasons, making several options available. Authorized leaves of absence must be requested in writing by the faculty member and approved by the department chairman and the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean. Such leaves will not affect continuity of service, except as regards mandatory tenure decisions, in which cases the period of leave will not count as full-time teaching service.

C. Guidelines

1.  A full-time faculty member may for maternity reasons take a leave of absence according to Furman's regular sick leave policies.

2.  A full-time female faculty member may choose to take for maternity reasons a leave of absence for one term or its equivalent with full pay. For the purpose of this arrangement, a full term will be equated with teaching two four-hour courses, with accompanying responsibilities. The female faculty member may choose to be absent for a full term, or to teach one course in each of two consecutive terms. Whether the period of leave is for one full term or for a reduced teaching load in two consecutive terms will be determined with concern for the needs and preferences of the mother and the academic department. The time approved for the leave will be mutually agreed upon by the faculty member, the department chairman, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean at the time the request for leave is approved.

3.  In cases in which extraordinary circumstances require leave of absence beyond the arrangements described above, the normal provisions related to long term disability leave will apply. (See Policies and Procedures Manual, file 814.1, C., 5.)

4.  Normally, when the faculty member for maternity reasons chooses a leave of absence or a reduced teaching load, an adjunct faculty member will be hired to teach the two courses usually taught by the person requesting time off.

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