Common use of Optional Courses Clause in Contracts

Optional Courses. For those courses not considered a condition of continuing employment, but which, in the opinion of the Fire Chief, may contribute to improved efficiency and/or work quality, the City shall assume financial responsibility as follows: Grade C/Pass or better: Tuition Books Grade D: no reimbursement In order to receive this benefit, the following conditions must be met: 1. The course must be authorized by the Fire Chief and City Manager prior to enrollment; and 2. The employee must remain in the City's employment for at least one (1) year beyond the completion of the course. If the one (1) year requirement is not met, the costs may be deducted from the employee's final paycheck. (1) Reimbursement will be paid at current state level fees (University of Central Florida or Daytona State College (depending upon program availability) will be used as a standard). The Fire Chief is authorized to compare degree cost and may approve higher credit hour costs when total degree costs are similar or less. Authorization may also be provided when the program, certification, or degree is not available at a state university and is deemed to be operationally critical. All optional educational classes will be attended on the employee's own time. Time exchanges are authorized for educational leave. Reimbursement for tuition is contingent upon State verification, where required. If the City reimburses an employee for books, the books become the property of the City. The employee may elect to pay for books and retain the books.