The Source
Comal ISD Human Resources and Customer Service Newsletter
August 2016
In This Issue:
Ed Training Center- Compliance Videos
2016-17 School Year Welcome
Answers to Your Questions- HR FAQ's and Contacts
New Year, New You- Changing your information
New To Comal ISD?- Sign up for job perks!
Rally- Giftcards for Better Health
Health and Wellness- August is Immunization Awareness Month- Learn more about Flu Immunization
Myuhc.com and Myuhcdental.com
Be a Smart Consumer of Healthcare Services- Using the myHealthcare Cost Estimator
Return to Work
Customer Service Corner-Comal Cares
Important Information Regarding August and September Paychecks
Board Approved Pay Raises
The Comal ISD Board of Trustees generously voted in June to provide all employees with a 2% salary increase for the 2016-2017 school year. All hourly employees received an additional 1% on the midpoint increase for the 2016-2017 school year. In order to qualify for a salary increase, an employee must have been employed for the last 90 workdays in the 2015-2016 school year. Please see below for when this change will be reflected in paychecks:
July Paycheck
Eligible employees working 227 - 237 days received this increase beginning with their July paycheck.
August Paycheck
Eligible employees working 207 – 226 days received this increase beginning with their August paycheck.
September Paycheck
Eligible employees working 179 – 206 days will receive this increase beginning with their September paycheck.
Health Insurance Premiums – Changes Reflected in August Paycheck
This is a friendly reminder that any changes made to your insurance(s) during the Open Enrollment period went into effect on 08/01/2016.
August Paycheck
All new premium amounts will be reflected in your August 2016 paycheck. Employees are encouraged to review your August paycheck to make sure that all benefit elections and premiums are correct.
If you find a discrepancy, please contact Glenna Miranda at 830-221-2040 or by email at glenna.miranda@comalisd.org immediately, so that the correction can be made.
Teacher Retirement System (TRS) – Employee Contribution Increase
Texas State Legislature passed SB 1458 in May of 2013, which overhauled the Texas Retirement System (TRS) in an effort to maintain the actuarial soundness of the pension fund while also providing a cost of living increase for current retirees. In addition to other changes, the bill made changes to the employee TRS contribution rate, the amount that comes out of your paycheck. The employee contribution increases to TRS are being phased-in over a period of four years. This is the final phase in year.
September Paycheck
Beginning with your September paycheck, you will see an increase in your TRS contribution from 7.2% to 7.7% due to SB 1458.
Please contact Human Resources at hr@comalisd.org with any questions you may have.
Ed Training Center- Compliance Videos
Team Comal- Providing R.E.A.L. Excellence in 2016-2017
Comal ISD employees dedicate themselves everyday to providing the best possible learning environment for every student in the District. We believe that together, through our commitment to those we serve and our daily actions, we teach students the importance and value of being a Resilient, Engaged, Active, and Life Long learner.
Our new to Comal ISD teachers and staff have shared with me the amazing welcome they have received on their campuses and in their departments. They have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support they have received from their administration and colleagues. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Comal ISD, we recognize the difference our people make. Providing excellence is an attitude in Comal and our people make it a priority!
Whether you have been a part of our family for years or are new to our District, you know that our commitment to teamwork and the way we selflessly share our talents, to do what is best for kids, makes Comal ISD the place to be! Thank you for being such an important part of our team!
As we start the 2016-2017 school year, The Department of Human Resources and Customer Service pledges to support all of our R.E.A.L. team members and we hope you will call on us whenever you need our support.
Have the best year yet!
-Mandy Epley
Comal ISD
Executive Director of Human Resources and Customer Service
Human Resources and Customer Service FAQs
Where do I send my transcripts to add a new degree?
How do I view my pay information?
How do I get a verification of employment?
Answers to these and many other frequently asked questions are posted in the Human Resources and Customer Service FAQs. You can access the information on the Comal ISD webpage on the main Human Resources and Customer Service page or under Employee Resources.
Please contact us if you need assistance with human resource questions.
Do you have questions about...
...employee Health Benefits:
Glenna Miranda
Employee Benefits Coordinator
Phone: 830-221-2040
Email: glenna.miranda@comalisd.org
...general questions related to employment opportunities, department forms or who to contact:
Dickie Guthrie
Senior Associate
Phone: 830-221-2115
Email: dickie.guthrie@comalisd.org
...certifications, new employee orientation or service record requests:
Samantha Whitney
Employment Specialist
Phone: 830-221-2118
Email: sam.whitney@comalisd.org
...substitutes and reporting an absence requiring a sub
Sonia Hernandez
Substitute Specialist
Phone: 830-221-2043
Email: sonia.hernandez@comalisd.org
...employee paysheets, employee calendars, employment verifications or salary schedules:
Burnita Reininger
Systems Information Specialist
Phone: 830.221.2607
Email: burnita.reininger@comalisd.org
...job postings, application system or observation/intern placements:
Rebekah Thudium
Human Resources Specialist
Phone: 830-221-2102
Email: rebekah.thudium@comalisd.org
...human resources and customer service:
Marie Kuehler
Human Resources and Customer Service Director
Phone: 830.221.2635
Email: marie.kuehler@comalisd.org
Mandy Epley
Executive Director of Human Resources and Customer Service
Phone: 830.221.2026
Email: mandy.epley@comalisd.org
New Year, New You!
Did you move this summer? Did you get a new phone number? Did your name change?
It is important to make sure we have updated information on record for you.
If you need to update your mailing address, contact information or name, please log on to the intranet and click on Employee Access Pay/Att to access ITCCS Employee Portal. Once logged on, you can update your profile information. If you are changing your name, please remember to send a copy of your new Social Security card to Samantha Whitney in order to complete the official name change.
New to Comal ISD? Sign up for your perks!
Comal ISD is happy to offer the PerkSpot Employee Discount Program to all its employees.
What is PerkSpot?
As an employee, PerkSpot is now your personal online savings resource -- a place to find discounts and rebates on goods and services from many of the best known brand names in the U.S. --online and off, nationally and locally.
Here's all you need to do to put PerkSpot to work for you. From your work or home computer, go to Comal ISD PerkSpot site - http://www.comalisd.perkspot.com - and follow the step-by-step instructions to register. We've got all the discount information ready for you on our site, you've just got to login to have access to all our discounts -- many are updated daily and weekly! Just pick out what you'd like, follow the instructions provided on PerkSpot and check out. PerkSpot's savings are convenient and valuable -- from everyday purchases like groceries to special purchases like family vacations or auto insurance.
It's all possible on PerkSpot.
GREAT HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS AND GIFT CARD REWARDS, JUST FOR YOU
Rally can help you get healthier, one small step at a time. Rally shows you how to make simple changes to your daily routine, set smart goals and stay on target. You’ll get personalized recommendations on how to move more, eat better and feel happier — and have fun doing it.
Start with the quick Health Survey and get your Rally Age, a measure of your overall health. Rally will then recommend missions for you: simple activities designed to help immediately improve your diet, fitness and mood. Start easy and level up when you’re ready.
Plus, on Rally there are lots of ways to earn Rally coins, which you can use for chances to win great rewards. Rack up coins for joining missions, pushing yourself in a challenge and even just for logging in every day.
Rally is available at no additional cost to you, as part of your employee benefits.
BETTER HEALTH STARTS ONLINE. REGISTER TODAY AT MYUHC.COM
August is Immunization Awareness Month
INFORMATION ON FLU IMMUNIZATIONS CAN BE FOUND AT:
https://www.uhctools.com/assets/prebuilt_2014_immunizations.pdf
Use myuhc.com and myuhcdental.com to Access Health Care Information
Get the tools you need to make better health care choices.
Not sure what's covered in your health insurance plan? Wondering what's in or out of network? Need a claim form, an ID card or a prescription refill? Get the answers you need, when you need them, on a Web site designed just for you – myuhc.com®.
All of your health benefits information is on myuhc.com, a resource that maintains your health care interactions.
Use myuhc.com to:
- View and pay your claims
- Access claim forms
- Print an ID card
- Look up your benefits
- Find a doctor, dental or vision care, or mental health resources
- Find providers for covered pediatric dental and pediatric vision services
- Locate a pharmacy, refill a prescription
- View an online statement
- View your account balances for Health Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account(s)
- Estimate health care costs
- Take a health survey
- Create and view your Personal Health Record
- Look up health topics
- Work with an Online Health Coach
- Find out about extra programs and discounts
- Set up direct deposit
- Change your mailing preferences
- Establish automatic payment options and more
- UnitedHealthcare provides you with personalized service and round-the-clock support that makes your health care experience productive and beneficial. With the technology built around myuhc.com, you have a comprehensive avenue to optimize your health care experience.
Your Money. Your Health. myHealthcare Cost Estimator
You may not realize this, but not all doctors medical facilities are the same. Depending on what you are looking for, you could see a wide range of estimates for the same procedure or treatment.
United Health Care has quick and easy ways to estimate your health costs. Quickly and easily estimate your health care costs on myuhc.com or the UnitedHealthcare Health4Me app today. It’s all about having what you need to make the best decisions for your health and your pocket book.
Start using Myhealthcare Cost Estimator today:
In just minutes, you get a preview of your health care costs.
Using your benefit information, myHealthcare Cost Estimator shows you the estimated cost for a treatment or procedure, and how that cost is impacted by your deductible, co-insurance and out-of-pocket maximum. This means that you’ll get an estimate
of what you’ll be responsible for paying out of your pocket, providing you with useful information for planning and budgeting.
Did you know that you may pay a different amount for a procedure depending on which provider you select and/or where you have the procedure done?
The more you use myHealthcare Cost Estimator, the more you’ll see that not all doctors are the same. Depending on what you’re looking for, you could see a wide range of estimates for the same procedure or treatment. You can then use this information to help you decide where to get care, or to start a discussion with your doctor.
You can search by condition or treatment with terms such as:
• Back pain
• X-rays
• MRIs
• Bone density study
• Low thyroid
Just search for the condition (e.g., back pain) or treatment (e.g., physical therapy) you would like an estimate for, and the tool will show you doctors and locations that offer those services in your area. You’ll also be able to learn about your care options, compare estimated costs, see quality and cost efficiency ratings, and even map out where you’ll be going. Most importantly, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision about what option is best for you.
Why use myHealthcare Cost Estimator?
With this information, you’ll be more prepared to decide which choice is best for you, plan your care and budget for medical expenses. You may save money, find doctors who better meet your needs or even find out about a new option you’ve never heard of before. It’s all about having the information you need to make the best decisions for your health and your pocket book.
It’s quick and easy to start using myHealthcare Cost Estimator.
Step 1: Visit myuhc.com or Health4Me
If you have not registered for myuhc.com, you’ll need your health plan ID card or Social Security number to get started. Once you’re logged in, click “Estimate Health Care Costs” on the right side of the page.
Step 2: Search for a condition or treatment
Once you’ve entered your ZIP code, you can search by treatment or condition. Try phrases like backache, X-ray, eyes itch, etc. Then hit the search button.
Step 3: Get a quick estimate
You’ll be taken to a page with a quick estimate, based on real average market costs in the search area. If you want to customize the estimate for a specific doctor or facility, click on “Continue.”
Step 4: Select a provider and/or facility
If you don’t already have a doctor in mind, myHealthcare Cost Estimator can help you find one. This page shows you estimates for specific doctors and facilities offering services for your search. You’ll be able to compare doctors based on their estimated cost, see quality ratings and which one is nearest to you.
Step 5: Get your final estimate
When you’re done, you can see your Final Estimate, which includes estimated costs from the doctor or facility you’ve chosen, along with up-to-date out-of-pocket estimated costs, based on your benefits and current level of coverage.
Did you know?
Studies show that people who actively engage in their health care decisions have fewer hospital visits, fewer visits to the emergency room, higher use of preventive care, and overall lower medical costs. You can take an active part in your health by seeking out and choosing quality care. The UnitedHealth Premium® program evaluates doctors for quality and cost efficiency to help you choose a doctor with confidence. Just visit UnitedHealthPremium.com to learn more.
Be in the know. myHealthcare Cost Estimator makes health care more accessible and transparent, so you can make more informed health care choices.
Understanding health care costs before you see the doctor is easy, just remember the 4Ps.
PROCEDURE
Learn more about a procedure and compare treatment options.
PROVIDER
Select a provider for a procedure.
PRICE
Quickly estimate out-of-pocket costs for specific procedures.
PLACE
Locate providers based on geographic search criteria, view maps and print directions.
Return to Work Program: You’re An Important Piece of our Puzzle
Addressing Work Related Injuries
RTW Program Purpose
The primary goal of Comal ISD’s Return to Work (RTW) program is to return injured on the job employees to work at the earliest medically allowable date, and in accordance with the prescribed medical treatment plan. Our RTW program promotes rehabilitation and enhances the recovery process while our employees remain on the job.
How does it work?
Most employees that are injured on the job are allowed to go back to work but may have work restrictions from their treating doctor. Whenever possible, supervisors will work to modify duties. For example, the doctor allows the employee to return to work but states they cannot lift more than 50lbs. The supervisor of that department will temporary modify that employees job duties so that they do not lift more than 50 lbs., allowing them to perform some work while they recover.
Why Stay at Work?
You are a valued member of our organization and we rely on each other to get the job done. Our experience shows the advantages of coming back to work include:
· quicker recovery times
· a smoother transition back to work
· maintaining self-esteem in spite of the medical condition
· receiving a regular paycheck with regular benefits (Workers’ comp only pays 70%)
· maintaining relationships at work
Employee Benefits
· Earn regular, hourly wages and accrue all benefits as applicable in the regular “time of injury” job.
· Speed recovery while minimizing disruption to normal routine.
· Preserve leave time and benefit balances.
· Work in a controlled environment to minimize risk of re-injury.
· Have productive use of abilities to maintain and promote self-esteem.
Department Benefits
· Maintaining productivity in the workplace
· Supporting the culture of caring for our employees
· Providing a safe and timely transition back to work
· Keeping trained and experienced workers on the job
· Minimizing workers’ compensation costs
· Saving money spent on hiring temporary workers.
· Maximizing communication with injured employees
· Reducing likelihood of adversarial relationships
RTW Program Goals
· Fulfill our moral, ethical, and legal responsibilities to you.
· Provide transitional assignments for temporarily modified work to get you back to your job.
· Create positive workplace morale through collaborative communication and support.
How Do I Get Back To Work?
· Let your doctor know that your department has a Return to Work (RTW) Program.
· A transitional duty team consisting of you, your supervisor, Human Resources, Risk Management and/or a team coordinator will routinely meet to review the medical status form and identify temporary transitional duties available.
· You will work in the temporary transitional duty position as needs dictate or until released back to work by your physician.
Important Facts
· The RTW program is available to all employees with work-related injuries and illnesses.
· Participation in the RTW program is mandatory. Failure to participate may jeopardize workers’ compensation benefits.
· Employees must provide their department’s human resources or RTW coordinator the medical status form releasing them to return to work and noting the restrictions, if any.
· The RTW team, treating physician, employee, and the department partner together to create an effective RTW program.
Department Contacts:
Work Related injuries:
Belinda Raindl, CSRM, CTSBO (Business Office)
Return to Work Coordinator
Risk Management & Records Dept.
830-221-2062
Selma Garcia (Business Office)
Business Office Associate
Backup to Return to Work Coordinator
830-221-2136
Questions about FMLA or Temporary Disability Leave:
Glenna Miranda (HR Department)
Employee Benefits Coordinator
830-221-2040
Quote of the Month
Customer Service Corner
COMAL CARES- ARE YOU THE NEXT POSTER EMPLOYEE?
This month, we launched the new digital Comal Cares, where our parents and community members can log on to leave feedback about the great service they have received in our district. Every comment is shared with the campus or department where the comment was focused so that individuals and teams can be recognized for their excellent work or can receive valuable feedback for improvement.
“Customer service is taking the opportunity to turn any situation into a personal, positive experience.”
Comal Cares Philosophy
- Treat all people with courtesy, dignity and respect
- Practice open, honest, two-way communication
- Base all decisions on what is best for students
- Take ownership for providing the best service possible
- Respond to phone calls and emails with in 24 hours
- Listen to all concerns
As we receive specific praise for employees who go above and beyond in their daily service to the community of Comal ISD and to the students and families we serve, we would like to honor them with a place on our Comal Cares digital website banner.
Will your great service make you the next Comal Cares poster employee?
We look forward to celebrating the great work of our Comal ISD team members by sharing your smiling face on our posters.
Comal ISD Department of Human Resources and Customer Service
Email: mandy.epley@comalisd.org
Website: www.comalisd.org
Location: 1404 Interstate 35 N, New Braunfels, TX, 78130
Phone: (830) 221-2026
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comalisd
Twitter: @CISDNews
