Q: How can I get out of my school psychologist's contract with a school district in the middle of the school year?
I am under contract with a school district in Phoenix, AZ as a school psychologist. My employment has become very stressful this year and I am becoming ill too frequently. I'd like to leave my position because we do not have any short-term disability benefits, so if I went on a leave of absence under FMLA (or other approved absence), I would not be paid. At least if I quit, I can find another job. However, I heard I can be sued for breach of contract and would not receive the earned portion of the balance of contract (the money that is paid out for "summer pay") that I have already earned. Is this true? I thought if we were an "at will" employment state, you could be fired or quit at any time. What typically happens to one who breaches the contract with a school district?
A:
Hard to advise on a contract without reading the agreement. Check with an employment lawyer.
Please Take Notice: I am not your lawyer unless we enter into an engagement agreement in writing. This is only general information. It is NOT legal advice, and it may not work for your specific situation. It is impossible to evaluate a legal problem without a comprehensive consultation and review of all the relevant facts and documents. I strongly encourage you to consult with a local lawyer to get legal advice and help with your specific situation at your earliest convenience. I am licensed to practice law in Arizona.
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