Korean Job Discussion Forums

Escomike · Joined: 02 Mar 2009

I am re-newing, and I am planning to go back home for a visit between contracts in March. My co-teacher (at a public school) just asked me if I would go home during January vacation instead of March 23 for at least two weeks. "It's impossible to go back in the middle of the school year," he says. Has anyone ever heard of this? The only commitment I have made is sign a "promise letter" to the local education office telling them I promised to come back next year. No specific dates are mentioned on the letter.

Mike

OculisOrbis · Joined: 17 Jul 2006

Impossible - the common answer given when they know it isn't true and cant competently defend their position. Loosely translated, it means 'Shut up and do as youre told. We own your ass. Who do you think you are by questioning our supreme authority and judgment?'.

They just don't want you to miss classes. It might even state in your contract that the re-signing bonus of two extra weeks vacation must be taken during the last two weeks of your contract. Check it out. It might be THEIR policy that they are breaking by telling you to take it earlier.

Until you have a signed renewal, it's a non-issue anyway. After they give you the new contract to sign and if you want to maintain a good relationship with them, just take it when they want you to.

If the dates they want dont work for you, just say no and you'll take it at the end or your contract or work out some other dates that are good for both of you (there likely wont be any dates that arent impossible for them other than the ones they originally suggested). Trying to convince them that there are alternatives or possible compromises will likely piss them off even if they dont outwardly show it.

Escomike · Joined: 02 Mar 2009

Thanks!

I should have went home and read my contract before posting. It clearly says I shall be given two weeks prior to the end of my contract date to go home if I renew. I will hold the school to that.

Mike

Burndog · Joined: 17 Feb 2008

loyfriend · Joined: 03 Aug 2009

Well seeing as I just posted this question 48 hours ago and no one replied.

My contract with a public school was renewed yesterday. I didn't see no 2 week vacation what is written in the contract. My contract didn't state a 2,000,000 won resign bonus either.

The option was just for last two weeks vacation. Well they told me they have no plane ticket, and that they will give me 2,000,000 but they give it to me sometime next year after the semester stats.

Escomike · Joined: 02 Mar 2009

Matt,

FYI, Here is what my contract states: (Epik)

"In the case of renewal of this contract pursuant to the foregoing (1) Employee shall be given two weeks for a home leave which will take place 2 calendar weeks prior to the contract end date specified in Article 5 hereof until the day immediately preceding the commencement of the renewed term, This two-week home leave will be counted as part of the contract term, and, accordingly, salary will be paid."

I think it is clear.

Mike

Burndog · Joined: 17 Feb 2008

Burndog · Joined: 17 Feb 2008

Kurtz · Joined: 05 Jan 2007 Location: ples bilong me

Otherside · Joined: 06 Sep 2007

Learn to play the game OP.

You stick your guns, you'll win, but when you are desk warming during the summer vac, and no one is 'bending' any rules to benefit you, then I don't want to see you complaining.

If having the vacation in March is a really big deal to you, then take it, but you should go in with a good excuse that they can understand, , eg. My sister/bestfriend is getting married then.