Telework Resources

Dear Middlebury Staff,

I’m following up on my message from Sunday night about working remotely and providing links to documents that will clarify our policy and provide you with additional information.

We’re encouraging all employees in Vermont who can do their jobs remotely to discuss this option with their supervisors. We’ve asked supervisors to be flexible and to accommodate your requests whenever possible. At this time, remote work isn’t mandatory. Please work with your manager to determine if your job allows you to telework and, if so, what equipment or materials you’ll need to work at home. You and your manager will also need to develop a plan for completing your work remotely.

We expect that you’ll be available during business hours via email and phone. However, if you need a flexible schedule, please discuss this with your supervisor. Discuss, too, how you’ll organize the workflow and schedule regular check-ins either by telephone or by Zoom videoconferencing. Program managers or meeting organizers will be responsible for (re)scheduling meetings and communicating as needed. We’re recommending Zoom for group meetings.

Teleworking may not be suitable for all employees, and we expect those staff whose jobs require them to be on campus to come to work. However, if you have challenges with childcare or with caring for a parent, for example, please consult with your manager about possible shift changes, flexible schedules, or other options. We’ll be as flexible as possible.

We also want you to be aware that, in the evolving environment we’re in, it’s possible that your responsibilities, assignments, and schedule could change to meet the needs of the College. Our goal is to keep staff productively employed. We expect managers to be as resourceful as possible and to find alternate work for employees in their areas. But if the need arises, and all resources are exhausted in your area, the College may assign you to other work.

You’ll find more information in this FAQ. Please read through it, as well as the Temporary Telework Policy and Remote Worker Agreement. IT has also developed a web page providing support for remote work that you may also find helpful.

I know that the environment we’re all working in is disorienting and creating additional stress. You have my sincere thanks for your dedication, partnership, and commitment to Middlebury and our students, particularly at this disruptive time. Please know that HR is here to support you.

With appreciation,

Karen Miller

VP for Human Resources and Chief Risk Officer

David Provost

EVP for Finance and Administration