We understand the challenges ahead for certain employees due to the ongoing closure of K-12 schools. Some families may be more affected by others and every situation is case specific.
Whatcom County is committed to providing clear options for employees to consider during these challenging times. Please review and discuss any needs with your supervisor as soon as possible. It is important for us all to work together to balance reasonable flexibility within policy and the continuity of our services to the public.
Please call your Human Resources Representative, as needed, to assist you with consideration of options.
Telework
Employees with jobs or tasks that are conducive to telework may submit a telework request to their department head.
Alternative Schedules
Modifications to the hours and basic workday or workweek may be requested to accommodate a different schedule.
Emergency Sick and Family and Medical Leave (EFML) - Expires 12/31/2020
Employees may submit a COVID-19 Leave Request Form.
Sick Leave
Employees may use sick leave due to Public Health closures of school or child care facilities per RCW 49.26.210 and County Policy – Offering Paid Sick Leave.
Vacation/PTO, Compensatory Time
Employees may use other accruals, as approved, to request time off from work.
Unpaid Leave
Employees may request unpaid leave according to County Policy – Requesting Unpaid Time Off. This includes 80 hours per calendar year of voluntary unpaid furlough administered by Department Heads.
COVID-19 Leave Sharing
Employees who have exhausted their leave accruals may request leave donations for absences due to public health closure of school or care facilities per County Policy – Administering Leave Sharing During the COVID-19 Event. Employees may donate any amount of leave.
