Dear Stew,
I applied for reclassification in 2024. My manager has inquired about the status of my reclass and is told there are numerous requests ahead of mine. I recently read that someone was granted a reclass that was filed in 2023! This person waited two years. Did they continue to work out of class for two years while awaiting their outcome? Should I continue to do higher level work while I await a verdict? If I am not granted the reclass I have just spent two years doing work for which I was not compensated.
Sincerely,
Rita Reclass
Hi Rita Reclass,
There are a few important things to keep in mind regarding out-of-class work.
1. Back Pay and Reclassification
If the committee determines that you’ve been performing work outside your classification, you are entitled to back pay—regardless of whether the district agrees to reclassify you moving forward. The committee includes both CSEA 262 and district representatives, so its determinations are generally reliable. If you disagree with the outcome, you may request reconsideration. If that fails, our steward program can help pursue proper compensation for work already performed.
It can sometimes be a challenge to prove you were consistently performing higher-level duties, but the process is generally fair and effective. Therefore, it is rare for someone to be doing out-of-class work without eventually receiving the appropriate pay.
2. Direction from Management
If your manager assigns duties that you believe are outside your classification, you may voice your concern. However, if they insist and you refuse, it could be considered insubordination—even if you’re correct. For this reason, you should generally comply with the assignment unless it is illegal or unsafe.
3. Options for Setting Boundaries
If your manager agrees the task is outside your classification and would not push back if you declined, you may choose to stop.
If your manager disagrees, but you don’t want to continue the task while awaiting reclassification, contact a steward. They can help you establish clearer boundaries.
4. Risks of Refusing the Work
Choosing to stop could weaken your reclassification case, even though you would still be eligible for back pay. It may also cause conflict with your supervisor.
Given the high likelihood of receiving back pay and the potential risks of refusing the work, my general advice is to continue performing the duties until the process concludes.
That said, the decision is yours. If you choose to stop the work before the process finishes, please let Robin Cash know so we can assign a steward to support you.
Regards,
Stew