Can school employees collect Washington ESD unemployment during summer break?

I don't have any contracts signed for next year, just worked as a day-to-day sub. Does that change things?

That could make a difference. Without reasonable assurance, you might be eligible. But Washington ESD will review your specific situation during adjudication.

That's frustrating! Did you appeal the decision or just accept it?

I appealed but lost. The hearing officer agreed with Washington ESD that I had reasonable assurance of returning work.

Ha! Getting through to Washington ESD is nearly impossible. I've been trying for weeks on another issue.

Actually, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to Washington ESD agents. They have some system that gets you connected faster. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ showing how it works.

Interesting, never heard of that. Does it actually work?

Yeah, I used it last month when my claim got stuck in adjudication. Got through to an agent in like 20 minutes instead of calling for days.

I feel your pain. The whole reasonable assurance thing seems designed to keep us from getting benefits.

I understand the frustration, but the rule exists because many school employees do have guaranteed positions. The issue is determining who actually has that assurance.

That's one approach. Just be prepared that if you collect benefits and they later determine you weren't eligible, you'll have to pay it back as an overpayment.

Good point. Maybe I should get clarification first before filing.

Support staff like kitchen workers are often treated differently than instructional staff. They may not have the same reasonable assurance provisions.

that makes sense why she gets it then

I worked pretty regularly but never got any indication I'd be guaranteed work next year. Should I gather emails or documentation from the districts?

Absolutely. Any communication about your status for next year could be crucial if your claim goes to adjudication or appeal.

Transportation staff often have different arrangements than teachers. Some districts keep drivers on year-round for summer programs or maintenance.

Mine doesn't. We're basically laid off every summer but told we can come back in the fall.

Thanks for the suggestion. I'll check it out if I can't get clear answers online.

Anything that helps us actually reach a human at Washington ESD is worth trying.

Good point. I wonder if substitute positions for summer school would count as job search activities?

They should, as long as you're genuinely available for work. The job search requirement is about being able and available, not just going through the motions.

That's a good example. It really seems to come down to the specific circumstances.

Exactly. Each case is evaluated individually based on the facts and the reasonable assurance standard.

Well, not exactly. If you're denied, it could affect future claims if your circumstances change. Better to understand the rules first.

oh i didnt know that, good to know

Agreed! I have a much better understanding now of what factors Washington ESD considers.

Happy to help. School employee unemployment eligibility is one of the more complex areas of UI law, so it's worth getting it right.