Campus-Scheduled Break Coverage

Continuous Operations During Breaks

Online programs operate on academic calendars that do not always align with the campus holiday and break schedule. Online students may be actively enrolled, submitting coursework, and seeking support during periods when the physical campus is closed or operating on a reduced schedule. Accordingly, the online education unit will maintain essential operations during campus-scheduled breaks, including fall break, Thanksgiving break, winter/holiday break, spring break, and summer reduced-operations period. The Director will communicate break coverage expectations and schedules at least three weeks in advance.

Hybrid Work Arrangements

Given the nature of online education work, the unit operates under a remote-first model. Most responsibilities, such as student communication, course support, administrative coordination, and virtual meetings, can be performed effectively from a remote location. However, periodic on-site presence supports institutional collaboration, professional development, and team cohesion.

On-Site Expectations

• Minimum on-site presence: Employees are expected to be on campus a minimum of three days per week, or as specified by the Director based on role requirements
• Flexibility during breaks: On-site requirements may be reduced or waived during campus-scheduled breaks when the physical campus is closed or operating on limited hours

Remote Work Requirements

Employees working remotely must:

1. Maintain a dedicated, distraction-minimized workspace suitable for professional communication including video calls
2. Ensure reliable internet connectivity sufficient for video conferencing, LMS access, and organizational systems
3. Be accessible during their scheduled hours via organizational communication platforms (email, phone, Teams)
4. Comply with all data security and confidentiality requirements, including VPN use where required
5. Communicate proactively with supervisors and colleagues regarding availability, task progress, and scheduling changes

Leave and Absences

All existing leave policies (vacation, sick leave, personal days, FMLA, and other applicable categories) remain in full effect under flexible and hybrid arrangements.

Performance and Accountability

Flexible scheduling does not alter performance expectations. To sustain team cohesion and effective operations across varied schedules. Employees must keep their calendar current and visible to colleagues, clearly reflecting scheduled hours, work location, and availability each day.

Modification, Suspension, and Termination of Arrangements

Flexible and hybrid work arrangements are extended based on operational need and individual performance, and may be adjusted as circumstances require.

• Supervisors may temporarily adjust schedules during peak operational periods (e.g., enrollment cycles, accreditation reviews, term starts) with at least one week's notice where practicable
• Individual flexible arrangements may be modified or revoked if performance expectations are not met or if the employee's schedule no longer aligns with coverage needs, following a documented conversation
• The organization reserves the right to revise or rescind this policy at any time with reasonable notice