La Grange Park, IL asked in Education Law, Employment Law and Contracts for Illinois

Q: I work in Cook county as a secondary teacher for a private school and want to break my contract.

I have health issues and was not informed that I would be teaching in a building with poor HVAC. Most days of the week I experience headaches and spend most of my free time recuperating. My contract requires a 3 month notice. I am looking for a position outside of teaching with a better work environment so I can avoid the headaches I get several times a week. I believe my room has a mold issue but am not sure. How can I quit and not be sued?

1 Lawyer Answer
Cynthia Pietrucha
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Answered

A: I'm sorry to hear about your situation. If you have a diagnosis from a doctor indicating a disability that contributes to your headaches, it's advisable to explore reasonable accommodation options with your employer. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. This could involve discussions with your employer about potential changes to your work environment or duties that might alleviate your health issues.

Additionally, if you are considering exiting your current position, negotiating a separation agreement might be a viable option. Given your health concerns and the potential impact on your ability to fulfill your contract's notice period, consulting with an attorney could be beneficial. An attorney can guide you through the negotiation process, ensuring your rights and interests are protected.

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