2026 ACSA Personnel Institute

Between chronic absenteeism, expanding leave laws, staffing shortages, substitute vacancies, and evolving employee expectations, Human Resources professionals are asking themselves a very real question: does anyone actually come to work anymore? This engaging and relatable session takes a practical—and honest—look at the growing complexities of employee leave administration in public education. Participants will explore the ever-changing maze of FMLA, CFRA, pregnancy disability and parental leave, workers’ compensation, paid sick leave, catastrophic leave, and negotiated leave provisions, as well as the increasingly blurred lines between contractual rights, legal obligations, and operational realities. Through real-world scenarios, interactive discussion, and shared “you can’t make this up” moments, attendees will unpack common leave challenges and staffing impacts facing districts today.

Navigating employee leaves can be complex—especially in the education sector, where multiple leave entitlements intersect. This session will provide HR professionals with a clear overview of the most commonly used types of leave—sick, industrial accident, differential or extended, bereavement, association business-- and recent changes in the law related to these leaves. Participants will gain practical strategies for documenting leave accurately and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. Attendees will leave with actionable tips and tools to support effective leave administration and sound decision-making in their districts.

Building on foundational knowledge of employee leaves, this advanced session explores the nuanced and often challenging aspects of leave administration in the education setting. Designed for experienced HR professionals, this workshop will examine key laws related to pregnancy, parental/bonding leave, family care leave, and re-employment rights and how these leaves interact. Attendees will utilize real world examples to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate these complex situations while ensuring compliance and employee support through the process.