Classified Professional Development Application Processes

The Classified Professional Development Program provides opportunities for Classified Staff to attend work-related conferences, workshops, seminars or to complete college coursework.

Eligibility

Classified Professional Development funds are available to classified employees who have completed probationary status. The Cañada College Classified Professional Development Program supports the development of:

  • Job-related skills and knowledge
  • Knowledge and skills for professional advancement
  • Work, life, balance associated with job performance

Classified Professional Development funds are allocated on an annual basis (July 1 – June 30). Due to limited funding, applications are approved on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application by the Classified Professional Development Committee via email. Classified Professional Development Funds are limited, so approval for reimbursement is not a guarantee.

Conference/Workshop Application Process

 Please review the SMCCCD Travel Policy for more information on reimbursements: Domestic Travel Policy or International Travel Policy

Prior to the Conference/Workshop

Classified Staff may request up to $1,000 of conference/workshop reimbursement per fiscal year. Applicants should complete the following steps at least 30 days prior to the conference/workshop:

  • Complete CSD Conference Advance/Pre-Approval including supervisor's signature - please indicate if requesting pre-approval or an advance check at the top of the page (out-of-state conferences/workshops must have President’s approval as well).
  • Complete the Cañada Classified Professional Development Application including supervisor's signature.
  • Submit your signed Advance/Pre-Approval form and Classified PD Application, along with any helpful supporting materials, such as, agendas, registration fees, hotel costs, travel estimates, etc, to Chantal Sosa at sosachantal@smccd.edu.

Applications will be reviewed in accordance with the Classified Professional Development Application Process.

After the Conference/Workshop

Classified Staff approved for Conference/Workshop Reimbursement must complete the following steps within 30 days of attendance or completion of the conference/workshop:

  • Complete the Statement of Conference Expense form.
  • Gather original approved PD Application, Advance/Pre-Approval Form, receipts, agenda, and other supporting documentation, and submit to your supervisor.

Cañada Tuition Application Process

Eligibility

Permanent employees who have completed their probationary period are eligible to receive up to $1,400 in tuition reimbursement per fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). Applications must also meet the following requirements:

  • Coursework must be related to professional development (work-related skills and knowledge) or growth (advancing role within the institution), or part of a college degree program
  • Courses must be taken at an accredited institution
  • Applicant must receive a minimum grade of C in the course(s) receiving reimbursement
  • Reimbursement is for tuition only (fees, books, meals, mileage, and related expenses are not included)
  • Applicants participating in the District SMCCCD Pilot Tuition Reimbursement program are not eligible for Cañada Tuition Reimbursement for the same program.
  • Applicants are encouraged to discuss their long-term educational/professional development plans with supervisor(s)

Application Steps

Before Your Course(s) Begins

Applications will be reviewed in accordance with the Classified Professional Development Application Process.

After Completing Your Course(s)

Classified Staff approved for Tuition Reimbursement must complete the following steps within 30 days of course completion:

  • Complete Request for Reimbursement form.
  • Submit signed reimbursement form, transcripts, and proof of payment to your supervisor.