For teachers: What does it mean to have a buy back day?

Question

I am attending an optional teacher training and am told that I get two buy back days for it. What does that mean? More money? Two vacation days during the year? Any teachers out there who could tell me, I would appreciate it. I'm embarrassed to ask, since this is my third year teaching and I probably should already know.

Answer 1

Buy Back days are non student days.They could mean a lot in terms of how you get compensated. Could be that it is built into the contract. Could also mean monetary compensation. Also, at what rate are you getting paid? Is it per diem or negotiated hourly rate. Hourly rate is usually lower then the per diem. Ask your HR department for clarification.  

Answer 2

Here is what buy back means in my district - Im getting three of them prior to the kids starting in late august: (it might be only a local district thing - you just might be teaching in my district)

It is an agreement in the contract that allows the district to pay you for your services for a day. They only use it for staff development - and they pay you your regular payrate. So those who choose to not attend, dont lose anything salarywise - those who do attend get paid extra.

Its a negotiated way to save a few bucks for the district - and do staff development that wont take time away from students.

I usually attend them if the topics seem to be of value - if not, I spend the time in my room setting up (no, I dont get paid for that)

Answer 3

Now, it can have alot of connotations, but, it could be they are buying back unused vacation, since you won't get paid for it. that' would be my guess, but, YOU NEED TO ASK THE QUESTION. Don't be scared. Just do it.