The Employer may grant any teacher who so requests a one year leave of absence without pay for reasons acceptable to the Employer.
A teacher who is on such leave shall be considered to be still on staff and such leave shall not constitute a break in employment. The teacher may continue to pay his/her share of the pension plan and other premiums for benefits, if he/she so desires.
Any teacher returning to staff after a leave of absence shall not be guaranteed the same position held prior to the leave of absence and must be prepared to accept any placement on staff for which he/she is qualified.
Should the teacher decide not to return, the teacher must give the Employer notice as of April 30th of the year of the leave. No increment shall be earned for a leave of absence.