Paid Special Leave has been a temporary leave program specific to the COVID-19, which was intended to promote the well-being and safety of employees by providing a source of additional paid time-off for staff.
This program has been adapted along the way in response to CDC guidance and the evolution of the pandemic. The program will once again be modified, effective with the start of the spring semester, through June 30, 2023, when the temporary program will come to an end.
Starting February 16, 2023, the maximum number of days offered between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023, to include post-vaccine recovery, is five (5). Staff who have not been awarded five or more days during this period remain eligible for Paid Special Leave.
Paid Special Leave can be requested by staff who have COVID and are unable to report to work in accordance with CDC/RIDOH guidelines and/or who do not have COVID but need to provide care for a dependent child with COVID.
Managers should also consider and discuss with their staff all possible alternate (flex time) or remote work arrangements based on department operational needs and where possible. If you are able to work remotely, you do not need to apply for Paid Special Leave.
Staff may continue to use paid time-off in accordance with applicable policies, as needed.
Complete the linked form to request paid special leave. Human Resources will contact you regarding your request. Requests will be considered based on the information provided by the requesting employee or their manager, in conjunction with RISD’s Employee Health Coordinator.
Page updated 2/15/23