Classified Employee Handbook

The purpose of the UWSP Classified Employee Handbook is to provide a general overview of employment policies and procedures. It will serve as a convenient source of reference as questions and/or problems arise concerning general work regulations and benefit programs. However, because changes take place continually in an organization as large as UWSP, the handbook may not be completely up-to-date. Employees will be informed of changes through their supervisor or Personnel Services as they occur. Supervisors and the Personnel Services staff are ready to answer specific questions and provide additional information not covered in this Handbook.

The information in this booklet has been prepared primarily for full-time employees. Part-time employees should check with Payroll and Staff Benefits (room 133, Old Main Building) regarding vacation, sick leave, retirement and other benefits.

If any portion of this handbook is in conflict with the provisions of an existing collective bargaining agreement or any State statute, the provisions of the labor agreement or statute will apply. Choosing to actively join the Union representing a particular position is a matter of personal choice. However, in some bargaining units, employees who choose not to actively join may still be required to pay their fair share equivalent of Union dues.

This Handbook is not meant to be all-inclusive. It is provided as a set of guidelines. In some instances, information is provided as a summary of a more detailed policy or procedure. It can be changed, in writing, by Personnel Services.

INTRODUCTION TO UWSP & UW SYSTEM

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is one of 13 degree granting campuses in the University of Wisconsin System. Founded in 1894 as Stevens Point Normal School, in the ensuing years the institution has become Central State Teachers College, Wisconsin State College, Wisconsin State University, and finally the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

UWSPs four academic colleges offer our 8,700 students 100 program choices within 49 majors, plus 78 minors and 16 graduate programs. There are 400 faculty and teaching academic staff, 200 non-teaching academic staff and 350 support staff, supplemented by part-time, temporary, and student employees.

The campus covers more than 300 acres and has more than 35 major buildings. The Schmeeckle Reserve north of the campus has been developed as an educational-recreational retreat and covers 185 acres of marsh, woodland, and meadow. It has a Visitors Center, nature trails, exercise stations and rest areas, which are open daily until dark.

The University of Wisconsin System is composed of 13 four-year campuses, 13 two-year campuses and statewide UW Extension. UW System is governed by a Board of Regents consisting of 17 citizen members. Policies adopted by the Regents are administered by the President and Central staff in Madison, by Chancellors of the Universities, the Center System and Extension, and by the Provost of Outreach.

The universities at Madison and Milwaukee have PhD level programs. All but one of the other universities offer undergraduate and masters degree programs, while the 14 Centers provide excellence in teaching freshmen and sophomore courses.

New learning options are bringing many new learners into higher education across Wisconsin. Credit by examination, Independent learning, distance education, and credit for prior learning are a few of the many ways it is possible for students of all ages, from all states of life, to take advantage of courses and degree programs in learning modes and at times and places convenient for them.

Stevens Point has a population of approximately 25,000. The city is the home of a major insurance firm and is a substantial producer of paper, lumber, millwork, furniture, fishing tackle and food products. The many lakes, streams and parks in Stevens Point and the surrounding area offer unlimited opportunities for both summer and winter outdoor recreation.