Progressive Discipline

The university employs a process of Progressive Discipline to collaboratively address issues of unsatisfactory performance or conduct. The disciplinary process may start at any counseling stage, taking into consideration the severity of the infraction and maintaining consistency in the administration of the disciplinary process. All sides of an issue should be heard prior to management administering any disciplinary action.

Note: Progressive discipline does not apply to employees within their 6 month introductory period.  Managers experiencing issues with an employee within their 6 month introductory period should immediately consult with an employee relations representative.

These resources and Employee Relations can be consulted for guidance.

• Progressive Discipline Process
• Factors in Determining Severity of Disciplinary Action
• Your Responsibilities During the Disciplinary Process (For Managers and For Employees)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Forms
  • Verbal Counseling
  • Written Counseling
  • Performance Improvement Plan

Progressive Discipline Process

1. Verbal Counseling is issued for minor infractions.
2. Written Counseling is issued after previously issuing a Verbal Counseling, or for those infractions of a serious nature.
3. Final Written Counseling is issued if a Written Counseling has been issued within the last 12 months or for a first offense of an extreme serious nature.
4. Performance Improvement Plan is issued by management for unsatisfactory behavior and/or performance that would require some time to allow the employee the opportunity to bring his/her behavior/performance to a satisfactory level. A Performance Improvement Plan (see Forms) should be used in conjunction with a Written or Final Written Counseling.

Discharge is recommended for infractions of a grave nature or after all progressive discipline procedures have been followed without significant and/or satisfactory improvement in behavior and/or performance.

An Employee Relations representative may be contacted through any or all stages of the discipline process. A representative must be consulted prior to the issuance of a Final Written Counseling or discharge any staff employee.

Please refer to the university Progressive Discipline policy for more information.