FAQ's for Southern Oregon University Summer 2009 Modified Work Schedule
Why is Southern Oregon University piloting a modified work week in Summer 2009?
SOU is experimenting with the Summer schedule as a part of a campus-wide effort to conserve resources. The period selected is typically the warmest period of the summer with peak utility usage. If the pilot provides measurable savings, we may modify the work weeks of future term breaks.
What is the timeframe and schedule?
We will modify the Ashland Campus work schedule between August 1, 2009, and September 13, 2009. We selected this 6-week period for the pilot because it is least disruptive to students, faculty, and staff. The schedule will be four days per week, ten hours per day (4/10). This schedule began on August 1, 2009.
What will be considered the normal work week during this period?
The normal workweek will be Monday through Thursday at 10 hours per day for a total of 40 hours straight pay. Overtime does not apply for the 9th and 10th hours worked each day during this period. Overtime does apply to hours worked over 10 hours in a day and 40 hours in the week. There will be no differential pay for classified employees whose normal workday is extended past 5 P.M. The University hours of operation will be 7 A.M. to 6 P.M. Offices and buildings will be closed on Fridays.
Will the lunch and break times remain the same?
For a 10 hour day, employees have a mandatory ½ hour lunch break and two 20 minutes breaks - one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Lunch and breaks cannot be taken at the beginning or end of the 10-hour work day.
Will exceptions be considered to the 4/10 work week?
Exceptions will be made only under unusual circumstances. Supervisors will coordinate work schedules. Any request for exception must be submitted to the individual's supervisor using the appropriate form. The division Vice President must approve the exception and forward the request to the human resources office. Once approved, no further changes can be made.
With the supervisor's approval, anyone wishing to work less than the 4/10 schedule may use vacation, comp time, or leave without pay (LWOP) for the hours not worked. If an employee does not have vacation or comp time, and does not want to use LWOP, he or she will be compensated only for the hours worked. All hours must be recorded on the monthly time sheet.
What about Labor Day week?
Monday, September 7, 2009, is the Labor Day holiday. Employees working the 4/10 schedule will receive 10 hours of holiday pay for Monday, September 7, 2009. Employees working an 8-hour schedule will receive 8 hours of holiday pay for Labor Day, September 7.
Where can I find a list of departments and buildings that might remain open on Fridays?
With a few exceptions, campus facilities will be closed on Fridays. Vice Presidents will monitor and determine the hours of operation deemed necessary in their division to effectively serve the public and/or students. The following units/buildings have been approved to maintain Friday hours as needed. We recommend contacting the department directly to determine the schedule for a particular Friday.
Stevenson Student Union (open Friday, August 14 for Raider Registration)
Bookstore (open Fridays, August 7 & 14)
Residence Halls (open all Fridays)
Enrollment Services Center/Admissions/Britt (open all Fridays)
Heat Plant (open all Fridays)
Landscaping/Grounds Maintenance (open all Fridays)
RCC-SOU Higher Education Center in Medford
Computing Services
Jefferson Public Radio (open all Fridays)
RVTV (open all Fridays)
Campbell Ctr. (Youth programs open on Fridays in August)
OHSU School of Nursing
DCE (open all August Fridays)
ERC (open all Fridays)
Library (open Fridays until August 21)
Athletics (McNeal open Friday's for fall sports)
Office of Rural Health
Schneider Art Museum (open all Fridays)
Science Hall (open all Fridays for deliveries and instrument maintenance)
Theatre (open all Fridays in August)
Who do I contact if I have further questions?
Human Resource Services
552-8553
