23-3. Probationary Appointed Teacher

A probationary appointed teacher (“PAT”) is a full-time certified teacher who is in the process of completing the probationary period defined in Section 34-84 of the Illinois School Code.

23-3.1. Dismissal

The BOARD may dismiss PATs for misconduct during or at the end of the school year consistent with BOARD policies and procedures, subject to the provisions of this Agreement.

23-3.2. Displacement, Lay Off or Dismissal

The BOARD may displace, lay off or dismiss PATs during or at the end of the school year in accordance with the law and Board policies and procedures, subject to the provisions of this Agreement.

23-3.3. Renewal or Non-Renewal

The BOARD may non-renew a PAT for the following school year and dismiss the PAT at the end of the current school year as provided in this Section, Article 39 and the teacher evaluation plan. If a PAT’s performance for the school year is rated as “excellent” or “proficient,” the PAT shall be renewed for the following school year, but such renewal shall not be a guarantee of employment for the following school year. In the event a PAT’s rating is projected to be less than “proficient” and the PAT is recommended for non-renewal for the following school year, the BOARD shall provide the PAT with written notice in private by June 1 of the current school year. A PAT whose final rating is less than “proficient” shall be afforded the opportunity to submit a resignation within ten days of receipt of the rating or projected rating, and the resignation will be effective no earlier than the end of the school year. If the PAT resigns, the BOARD agrees to maintain the PAT’s health insurance coverage through August. Any notice of non-renewal shall provide the reason(s) for the non-renewal. PATs who are non-renewed are eligible to apply for open teaching positions.

23-3.4. Reappointment within Ten Months

A probationary teacher who is reappointed within ten months of the probationary teacher’s displacement shall not be considered as suffering a break in service for purposes of the consecutive years’ requirement for achieving tenure.