Calendar

FELTG Executive Director Deborah Hopkins instructing a class
Jul
27
Mon
Virtual Training Event – Federal Workplace 2020: Accountability, Challenges, and Trends During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Jul 27 – Jul 31 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

Summer heralds the arrival of warmer weather, and with it the federal conference season. But with a pandemic not yet behind us, you may be wary of attending a crowded function or, perhaps, you find that getting approval for travel is even more difficult than usual. In fact, the pandemic is making the possibility of attending summer federal conferences less likely each day.

There’s no need to despair, and no need to give up on high-quality training: join the virtual FELTG Forum this summer, from wherever you’re working. FELTG’s experienced and widely respected instructors come together for a training event focused on making sure you’re prepared to effectively manage the federal employment challenges that are new, complicated, and critical to your and your agency’s success. Plus, unlike a conference where you have to register for the full event, this training event allows attendees to register for only the sessions they prefer to attend. It’s better than a conference!

Whether you’re a supervisor, HR professional, EEO practitioner or an attorney, this event has something for you. Attendees will receive clear strategies and straight-forward guidance for holding employees accountable for performance and conduct, deftly handling the most complex EEO challenges, and identifying and handling those pesky issues that are new — or will be soon enough. Along the way, EEO counselors and investigators can earn their annual refresher hours, and attorneys can pick up CLEs, including two hours for their legal ethics requirements.

And here’s the best part: You can select whichever sessions you want. Join us for the whole event. Or join us for one day, or just one session. It’s up to you.

Avoid the crowds. Save your agency money. And get the important training you need from instructors you trust.

Who Should Attend

Attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO managers and directors; EEO specialists; Reasonable Accommodation Coordinators; federal supervisors and managers; security officers; union representatives.

Download Individual Registration Form



Monday, July 27, 2020

Counselor& Investigator Refresher Jump Start

 

Pre-session
12:30 – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2-2:30)
What Every Counselor and Investigator Needs to Know in 2020
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 3 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours)

Hey counselors and investigators! FELTG’s special event Federal Workplace 2020: Accountability, Challenges, and Trends provides an opportunity for you to pick up your mandatory annual refresher training with useful, timely, and engaging guidance. Ms. Atkinson kicks things off with an in-depth presentation on the foundational issues that EEO professionals need to know – everything from jurisdiction and pre-complaint counseling considerations, to best practices for interviewing complainants and witnesses during a global pandemic.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Understand timeliness issues like tolling and estoppel.
  • Identify the appropriate bases for dismissing a complaint.
  • Prepare and conduct effective witness interviews.


Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Spotlight on Accountability

 

Session 1
9:30 – 10:45 am EDT
The Foundations of Accountability: Discipline and Performance
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

(Earn 1.25 CLE credits)

This session begins with a discussion on the foundation of supervisory authority, and it will clarify the too-common misconceptions that prevent federal agencies from taking successful misconduct and performance-based actions against employees. Attendees will learn the five elements that must be present in a disciplinary case, the principles for holding employees accountable to perform acceptably, and will leave with the guidance necessary to avoid the roadblocks that lead to actions that fail when under the scrutiny of the MSPB, EEOC, or in grievance arbitration.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Recognize the differences between performance and conduct.
  • Identify the due process errors that doom a disciplinary or performance case.
  • Successfully take a defensible disciplinary or performance-based action that complies with the law, regulations, and Executive Orders.
Session 2
11:15 am – 12:30 pm EDT
Charges and Penalties in Disciplinary Cases
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 CLE credits)

If you’ve been in the business for more than a few days, you know the importance of drafting legally-sufficient disciplinary charges, and making a reasonable penalty determination. Yet many agencies still lose cases because of poorly drafted charges. This session will cover the art and science behind drafting disciplinary charges, including the types of charges, parts of a charge, how charges are interpreted, and alternative charges. From there the discussion will cover the factors required to determine an appropriate penalty for employee misconduct.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discuss the MSPB and Federal Circuit lead cases involving penalty determination.
  • Defend the penalty using the Douglas Factors – or related penalty defense factors.
  • Draft effective proposal and decision letters.
Session 3
1:30 – 2:45 pm EDT
Providing Performance Feedback That Makes a Difference
Presented by Anthony Marchese, Ph.D., Coach/Author/Trainer, FELTG Instructor

There is one action you can take that, when done effectively, could have a major impact on your team’s morale and productivity, and that is providing employees with honest feedback – and not just at mid-year or annual review time. Especially crucial, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, is continuing to provide feedback to remote employees. This session presentation will equip participants to nurture a culture of candor, while exposing feedback myths and ineffective practices. Plus, you’ll learn how to have difficult conversations that produce actionable outcomes.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the best practices for nurturing a culture of healthy feedback.
  • Prepare for routine and high-stakes conversations by learning to use a thoughtful approach to employee conversations.
  • Distinguish between opposing mindsets and their impact upon how feedback is received/acted upon.
Session 4
3:15 – 4:30 pm EDT
What to Do When Performance Goes Bad
Presented by Bob Woods, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 CLE credits)

When it comes to the PIP, the DP, the ODAP, or whatever your agency calls it, a lot of the advice you get is BS. But not from FELTG. This session gets to the heart of how to handle performance challenges, for employees in the office or on telework status. Attendees will learn the FELTG-Way to manage an employee’s opportunity to demonstrate acceptable performance. And if the employee fails the DP, attendees will be able to confidently, effectively, and quickly remove the employee for poor performance.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the required elements of performance cases.
  • Implement a legally-sufficient opportunity period to demonstrate acceptable performance (formerly a PIP).
  • Remove a poor performer in 31 days.


Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Handling EEO Challenges

Session 5
9:30 – 10:45 am EDT
Reasonable Accommodation in 75 Minutes
Presented by Dwight Lewis, former EEOC Chief AJ/Dallas Region, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours and 1.25 CLE credits)

As the Chief Administrative Judge of the EEOC’s Dallas Region for many years, Dwight Lewis saw his fair share of cases where agencies made reasonable accommodation mistakes. In this fast-paced session, Mr. Lewis will prepare you to be better equipped to navigate the reasonable accommodation process and avoid those mistakes he’s seen so often. The session will cover everything from defining a disability to determining undue hardship, and will highlight the importance of the interactive process in determining what accommodation is reasonable.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Effectively navigate the interactive process.
  • Determine when telework would be an appropriate accommodation.
  • Explain who gets to choose the accommodation, and why.
Session 6
11:15 am – 12:30 pm EDT
The Latest on Sexual Orientation and Transgender Discrimination
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

(Earn 1.25 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours and 1.25 CLE credits 

Deborah Hopkins PortraitOn June 15, 2020, the Supreme Court issued a decision in Zarda, Bostock, R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Homes that definitively set the level of protection for LGBTQ employees in this country. FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will share her analysis of the High Court ruling and explain the impact it has on the federal workplace. Over 75 minutes, Ms. Hopkins will also bring you up to speed on gender stereotyping as sex discrimination, same-sex discrimination, harassment not motivated by sexual desire, and much more.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Understand the statutory authorities that prohibit sex-based discrimination.
  • Define terms and concepts that apply to LGBTQ+ employees.
  • Identify actions that get agencies into EEO trouble.
Session 7
1:30 – 2:45 pm EDT
When the ADA and FMLA Collide
Presented by Barbara Haga, President/Federal HR Services, FELTG Senior Instructor

(Earn 1.25 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours and 1.25 CLE credits)

Navigating the FMLA is one of the most complex challenges a federal agency can face unless, of course, it is navigating the ADA at the same time. Add in the COVID-19 pandemic and you’ve got a complicated recipe that requires special attention. FELTG Senior Instructor Barbara Haga will compare and contrast coverage under the FMLA and coverage under the ADA, discuss the tricky role of medical documentation, and review leave under the FMLA and as a reasonable accommodation.

 

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Explain the difference between a serious health condition and an ADA disability.
  • Handle excessive absences under FMLA.
  • Request the appropriate medical documentation, without violating employee rights to confidentiality.
Session 8
3:15 – 4:30 pm EDT
Navigating the Morass of Mixed Cases
Presented by Bob Woods, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours and 1.25 CLE credits)

Few things create as much confusion among even experienced federal attorneys, EEO specialists, or HR professionals as mixed cases. We are here to help. Join Bob Woods as he untangles this often-complicated area when MSPB and EEOC both have potential jurisdiction over a case. What do you do when a mixed case lands on your desk? You’ll learn if you attend this session.

 

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discuss procedural options for processing mixed cases.
  • Identify potential jurisdictional issues in mixed case processing.
  • Explain the role of the Special Panel.

 



Thursday, July 30, 2020

Trends in Federal Employment Law

Session 9
9:30 – 10:45 am EDT
Performance and Conduct Problems During a Pandemic: Holding Remote Employees Accountable
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

(Earn 1.25 CLE credits)

Deborah Hopkins PortraitOne of the biggest challenges facing agencies during this COVID-19 pandemic – and its potential aftermath – is that so much of the workforce is no longer in the workplace. And with varying return to work orders across the country, there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to where things stand. How do you handle performance issues? What about conduct? What happens if an employee refuses to report for duty? While many employees are thriving under remote work, others continue to struggle with conduct or performance. It’s imperative to agency mission that you use the right tools to swiftly and effectively address these problems, regardless of where the employee is doing – or NOT doing – the actual work.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Follow the appropriate steps to discipline an employee for telework-related misconduct.
  • Conduct a performance demonstration period while an employee is working remotely.
  • Identify the agency’s options when an employee refuses to report for duty.
Session 10
11:15 am – 12:30 pm EDT
Understanding and Working with Your Agency’s OIG
Presented by Scott Boehm, former Senior Intelligence Advisor/Department of Defense Inspector General, FELTG Instructor

Your agency’s Office of Inspector General employs investigators, auditors, evaluators, and, sometimes, armed special agents. Its mission is to prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse, and promote economy, effectiveness, and efficiency of agency operations. It does so by investigating potential violations of law or misconduct and auditing or evaluating the agency’s operations and systems. If it sounds like your OIG’s mission may overlap or interconnect with your office’s mission, you’re right. So what happens when you’re investigating misconduct, and the OIG is investigating as well? What’s the role of the OIG if you uncover criminal behavior in the workplace? How does the OIG handle whistleblower disclosures? It’s important that you not only have a clear picture of what your agency’s OIG does, but also how to work with them. Now you have the chance to learn what you need to know.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Recognize the various types, purposes, and qualifications of Inspector Generals.
  • Identify the agency information that the OIG has access to, and any limitations it has on that information.
  • Determine whether an event or action triggers your responsibility
Session 11
1:30 – 2:45 pm EDT
EEO Trends in a COVID-19 World
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 EEO counselor & investigator refresher hours and 1.25 CLE credits)

The workplace has been turned upside down over the last few months as more than a million federal employees left their agency facilities to work from home. Now agencies are returning people to the workplace. Just because nobody was in the office for a while doesn’t mean that EEO problems have vanished, too. Ms. Atkinson will explain how applying the basic EEO framework can answer the current EEO issues you may be facing, such as providing telework as reasonable accommodation for people with underlying health conditions, agencies’ legal authority to administer medical exams related to COVID-19, and the virus-related problems agencies have seen lately regarding race and national origin discrimination.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Understand the areas where COVID-19 and EEO intersect.
  • Identify the elements of a direct threat analysis and how it applies to a global pandemic.
  • Explain the scenarios where virus-related comments about race and national origin rise to the level of a hostile work environment.
Session 12
3:15 – 4:30 pm EDT
Case Law Update: EEOC, FLRA, MSPB, and More
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 1.25 CLE credits)

In the world of federal employment law, things can change quickly; there has been more action in the past three years than in the previous 35. Join FELTG Instructor Ann Boehm for a review of the most recent and relevant cases, regulations, studies and reports from the EEOC, FLRA and MSPB, plus information from OPM and the Office of Special Counsel and where things stand with the Executive Orders. Attendees will leave with knowledge of recent developments and with an in-depth analysis of the current employment law climate and its impact on the federal workplace.

Learning takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the most critical recent decisions from the EEOC and FLRA.
  • Explain the status and impact of President Trump’s Executive Orders regarding the federal workplace.
  • Understand the current status of the MSPB and how the lack of quorum impacts agency actions and appeals.

 



Friday, July 31, 2020

Ethics 

Post-session A
10:00 am – 12:00 pm EDT
Ethics for the Government Attorney
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

(Earn 2.0 CLE ethics credits)

You have to earn your Ethics CLE credits, so you might as well do it the FELTG way and really learn something. Ms. Boehm, who spent more than 25 years working in employment law at federal agencies, will provide content focused specifically for government attorneys. Ms. Boehm will discuss ethics in relation to defining the client, filings and pleadings, contractors, personal conduct and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to work their way through ethically challenging hypothetical scenarios and to ask questions, and get answers, from someone who has experienced the same challenges you’re facing today.

Pricing

  • Early bird pricing for individual sessions start at $125. Daily and full event discounts available.
  • Early bird EEO refresher track pricing is $725.
  • See registration for full pricing details.
  • Early Bird discounts available until July 15!

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the Main Access or Ethics All Access registration options only. Group discounts are available through July 15.

 

Aug
3
Mon
Virtual Training Event – FLRA Law Week
Aug 3 – Aug 7 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

In 2018, President Trump issued three executive orders that had a significant impact on federal labor relations. With orders regarding official time, negotiation timeframes, and union responsibilities to pay for things they never had to pay for before, this was the biggest change to rock the world of federal labor relations in years. Three months later, a D.C. District Court Court judge enjoined several parts of the EOs, stating they were illegal. The White House then appealed.. And then the summer of 2019, that District Court ruling was overturned by an Appeals Court. The Executive Orders are no longer enjoined.

Where do things stand today? Join FELTG for FLRA Law Week and we’ll bring you up to speed on what you can, cannot and should do under these EOs.

But that’s not all. Every labor attorney, labor relations specialist, and union representative in government needs to have both a firm foundation in the historical perspective and precedence of FLRA decisions, as well as a strategy for taking advantage of any new approaches that are coming out of an ever-evolving Federal Labor Relations Authority. This training week, updated to reflect the current state of the law, does just that — and with instructors who spent a combined 38 years working at the FLRA, there’s no other federal labor relations training that will give you this type of inside perspective. You won’t want to miss it.

The program runs 12:00 – 4:00 each day, with a break from 1:45-2:15 (all times eastern).


Instructors

Ann Boehm, Joe Schimansky

Daily Agenda

Monday, August 3

Basic Management and Employee Rights: An overview of the Federal Service Labor-Management Relations Statute; the current status of Executive Orders 13836 and 13837; fundamental employee, union, and management rights; bargaining unit definition; the union organizer’s role; information requests; official time.

Tuesday, August 4

Labor Relations Meetings and Bargaining: More on official time; formal discussions; union representative rights; the collective bargaining process; the three categories of bargaining: mandatory, permissive, and prohibited.

Wednesday, August 5

Unfair Labor Practices and Negotiability: Employee rights vs. Management rights; the anatomy of an Unfair Labor Practice; an overview of the Federal Services Impasse Panel; negotiability appeals.

Thursday, August 6

The Psychology of Bargaining, Plus Grievances and Pandemic-Related Issues: Selecting a bargaining strategy; interest based bargaining as compared to hard ball bargaining; grievances; exceptions to arbitration awards; labor relations during  a pandemic.

Friday, August 7

Understanding the FSIP and Arbitration: Panel members, FSIP procedures, recent FSIP developments, the arbitration process overview; binding the arbitrator; how federal government arbitration is different from private sector arbitration and appeals; educating the arbitrator.

 


Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by July 24):

  • 5 days = $1475
  • 4 days = $1195
  • 3 days = $910
  • 2 days = $630
  • 1 day = $345

Standard Tuition (register July 25-August 7):

  • 5 days = $1550
  • 4 days = $1285
  • 3 days = $975
  • 2 days = $685
  • 1 day = $395

 


Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • This program has been pre-approved for CLE credits in Virginia. Additional CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees. If you are seeking CLE credit, FELTG will provide a materials sample for CLE credit that you may use in submission to your state bar. Attendees will also receive a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through July 24.
Aug
19
Wed
Virtual Training Event – Effectively Managing and Communicating With Federal Employees
Aug 19 – Aug 20 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

The one-size-fits-all approach to managing others is ineffective, and that becomes particularly apparent when the majority of your staff is teleworking.  Drawing upon the latest research and best practices in behavioral science, communication, team effectiveness, and generational studies, while making special consideration of the increased use of telework during the COVID-19 pandemic, FELTG Instructor Dr. Anthony Marchese will share his insight and practical strategies to ensure you are managing for success.

Sessions will be held from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern, with a break from 2:00-2:30 pm.

Instructor

FELTG Instructor Dr. Anthony Marchese

Anthony Marchese, PhD

Who Should Attend

Federal supervisors and managers; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO specialists; union representatives.

Agenda

Wednesday, August 19 – Managing Effectively

12:30-4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00-2:30)

Course description: Dr. Marchese will explain the difference between managing and leading, and help you to identify your strength and hone your supervisory skills. Using realistic agency scenarios, participants will learn how to understand and leverage individual differences to develop a meaningful management methodology that is targeted to the needs of their employees and those of the agency.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify strategies for managing difficult employees.
  • Successfully manage a mobile workforce.
  • Employ a specific set of skills to resolve workplace conflicts – including virtual conflicts.

Thursday, August 20 – Communicating Effectively

12:30-4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00-2:30)

Course description: What is stopping you and your team from developing innovative solutions to your most challenging problems? Oftentimes, the problem lies in a unit’s lack of communication. In Day 2 of this interactive virtual training, Dr. Marchese will share several strategies for improving communication with your staff – and it starts with you providing ongoing feedback on employee performance.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • (And how often to) communicate performance expectations.
  • Recognize the differences between positive and negative framing.
  • Hold difficult conversations with employees.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $275 per session, $525 for both sessions (register by August 10).
  • Standard Tuition: $330 per session, $595 for both sessions (register August 11-20).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through August 10.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Aug
20
Thu
Webinar – Hear it from a Judge: The Reasonable Accommodation Mistakes Agencies Make
Aug 20 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Dwight Lewis 

Course Description

 1

Are you likely to outright deny a reasonable accommodation request for leave or a flexible work schedule? Do you think undue hardship is a viable reason to deny most reasonable accommodations? Do you think it’s your responsibility as a supervisor or HR professional to determine if the individual is really disabled? Have you reached out to an employee’s doctor to find out more about his disability?

Oftentimes the best way to learn is by making mistakes. But not when it comes to reasonable accommodation law. Instead, learn from the blunders that other agencies have already made. Join Dwight Lewis, former Chief Administrative Judge of the EEOC – Dallas Region, for Part 4 of FELTG’s Reasonable Accommodation in the Federal Workplace webinar series.

Attendees will learn:

  • What steps to take when an employee informs you of his or her disability
  • What judges really think when an agency chooses an accommodation that is different than what the employee requested
  • How to determine if telework would be an effective accommodation
  • When leave would be considered an accommodation
  • Why undue hardship is rarely a successful defense for denying an accommodation request

Believe us: You don’t want to make these costly and embarrassing gaffes. Find out from a respected EEOC Chief AJ, how to handle reasonable accommodation requests the right way.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per session (payment made by July 20).
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per session (payment made July 21 or later).

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Sep
8
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Accommodating and Understanding Employees with Hidden Disabilities
Sep 8 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

From chronic pain and chronic fatigue to depression and diabetes, employees may be suffering from physical or mental impairments that aren’t obvious. Meanwhile, far too many federal employees and supervisors have a perception that if a disability isn’t visible, then it must not be “real.” And then there’s the fact that most employees are working remotely during pandemic, making the accommodation process even more challenging for HR professionals, supervisors, and the people who advise them.

Successful reasonable accommodation requires a two-pronged approach:

  1. An understanding of how to properly navigate the legal requirements, and
  2. Practical strategies to determine the most effective accommodation based upon knowledge of the actual impairments.

FELTG President and attorney at law Deborah Hopkins will kick off this virtual training with a thorough review of the ADA and Rehab Act requirements, plus EEOC guidance on accommodating individuals with mental impairments, behavioral health issues, and other hidden disabilities. Then Licensed Clinical Social Worker Shana Palmieri will discuss the best approaches to take – and those to stay away from – as you work with employees to accommodate their unseen disabilities.

If you attend, you will also have multiple opportunities to ask questions – and get answers in real time. And you will leave this training with a holistic and legally sound approach to providing reasonable accommodations to employees with hidden disabilities. This program runs from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 pm.

Learning takeaways:

  • Understand “qualified individual,” “essential functions,” and other terms integral to determining whether to grant reasonable accommodation.
  • Successfully take part in the interactive process.
  • Determine whether telework is an appropriate accommodation.
  • Explain how certain impairments may impact employee performance.
  • Communicate effectively with employees during the reasonable accommodation process.

See the Agenda below for a more detailed list of topics.

3

Download Individual Registration Form

Who Should Attend

Reasonable Accommodation Coordinators; EEO managers and directors; EEO specialists; EEO counselors and investigators; federal supervisors and managers who have employees with reasonable accommodation requests; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; union representatives.

Agenda

Part 1 – Reasonable Accommodation: The Legal Groundwork

12:30 – 2:00 pm eastern, with Instructor Deborah Hopkins

Course topics: Overview of Reasonable Accommodation law and the Reasonable Accommodation process; the “regarded as” provision of the Americans with Disabilities Act; a closer look at complicated cases involving determining essential functions, the definition of qualified individual, agency obligations during the interactive process, undue hardship claims, medical documentation, telework as accommodation.

Part 2 – Reasonable Accommodation: Practical Applications

2:30 – 4:00 pm eastern, with Instructor Shana Palmieri

Course topics: Understanding common behavioral health conditions, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders; methods for accommodating employees with hidden disabilities; effective communication strategies; handling the behavioral health emergency.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $325 (register by August 31).
  • Standard Tuition: $365 (register September 1-8).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • Can I earn CLE credits or EEO refresher training for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended. Attendees may also request a certificate for EEO refresher hours upon completion of this program.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through August 31.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Sep
9
Wed
Virtual Training Event – UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct
Sep 9 – Sep 10 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

FELTG’s flagship course UnCivil Servant empowers federal supervisors and advisers to confidently handle the challenges that come with supervising in the federal workplace. We hope that you never have to fire an employee. But it’s important that you have the tools to effectively address poor performance and misconduct, should the need arise.

Over the course of two half-days, UnCivil Servant identifies misconceptions about performance and misconduct-based actions and provides you with simple step-by-step guidance for taking swift, appropriate and legally defensible actions. The program also covers the very latest with Executive Order 13839, plus OPM regulations on performance and conduct.

Join FELTG for this special event, from wherever you are working – agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time. Note: This course fulfills OPM’s mandatory training requirements for new supervisors found at 5 CFR 412.202(b).

This program runs from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Who Should Attend

Federal supervisors and managers; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO specialists; union representatives.

Agenda

Wednesday, September 9

Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part I: Accountability and supervisory authority; discipline and misconduct theory and practice; the five elements of discipline; off-duty misconduct; penalty defense and due process.

Thursday, September 10

Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part II: Discipline procedures and appeals; disciplinary documents; defining unacceptable performance; dealing with poor performers; performance-based removal procedures.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $295 per session, $560 for both sessions (register by September 1).
  • Standard Tuition: $330 per session, $595 for both sessions (register September 2-10).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is September 1.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I earn HRCI credits for attending this class?
    • Each session is approved for 3 hours of HRCI general recertification credit. The HRCI course numbers will be available upon the conclusion of the training.
Sep
21
Mon
Virtual Training Event – MSPB Law Week
Sep 21 – Sep 25 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

The civil service world is changing and it’s important to be aware of the new laws and executive orders that apply to you. MSPB Law Week covers the legal requirements and best practices for disciplinary charges and penalties, plus understanding the law and strategy in handling performance cases and defending against whistleblower reprisal complaints. Join top MSPB practitioners and topic authors, and learn the law, strategies, and techniques from their many years of combined experience.

While the near future of the Merit Systems Protection Board remains uncertain, FELTG’s instructors are staying on top of the situation and will provide attendees with the information they need to know.

The program runs 12:00 – 4:00 pm eastern each day, with a break from 1:45 – 2:15.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Bob Woods

Daily Agenda

Monday

The Foundations of Accountability; Adverse Actions: Statutory basis including the Civil Service Reform Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, President Trump’s 2018 Executive Orders, the five elements of every disciplinary case and the burdens of proof, the fundamentals of penalty selection and defense, discipline procedures and appeals.

Tuesday

Disciplinary Charges: Types of charges, parts of a charge, how charges are interpreted, the role of the proposing and deciding officials, capitalizing on the general charge, allowing the inclusion of lesser-included offenses, charging in the alternative, attractive options to difficult charges and common charging mistakes, proving the difficult “intent” charge element, a step by step approach to charge drafting.

Wednesday

Penalties: MSPB and Federal Circuit lead cases in penalty determination, getting “intent” penalties off of “non-intent” charges, proving harsh penalties off of vanilla charges, charging down and proving up, how the maximum penalty is established, penalty mitigation; law enforcement officer discipline.

Thursday

Unacceptable Performance: Performance actions in perspective, drafting a defensible performance standard, implementing Performance Demonstration Periods (DPs, formerly known as PIPs), defeating the DP rollercoaster; the proof needed to take a performance-based action; removing a poor performer in 31 days.

Friday

Defending Against Whistleblower Reprisal Claims and other Affirmative Defenses: Whistleblower claims: protected disclosures and whistleblower reprisal, claims of harmful error, reprisal for union activity, excessive penalty findings.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by September 8):

  • 5 days = $1525
  • 4 days = $1245
  • 3 days = $960
  • 2 days = $680
  • 1 day = $395

Standard Tuition (register September 9 – September 25):

  • 5 days = $1600
  • 4 days = $1325
  • 3 days = $1015
  • 2 days = $725
  • 1 day = $445

Seminar registration includes a copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th ed., by Wiley and Hopkins. In order to receive your copy of the textbook by the training date, please register by September 12 and provide a shipping address in the designated space on the registration form.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through September 8.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Sep
28
Mon
Virtual Training Event – Absence, Leave Abuse & Medical Issues Week
Sep 28 – Oct 2 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

Federal employees enjoy a wide variety of leave-related benefits. However, many of us would never use the words “enjoy” and “leave” so closely together. Whether you’re an HR professional, employee relations practitioner, EEO specialist, supervisor, or agency counsel, you have undoubtedly faced a leave-related challenge. FELTG’s Absence, Leave Abuse & Medical Issues Week will give you the critical foundation you need to address the most complex areas of federal employment law, including the recent challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our speakers will discuss sick leave, annual leave, leave without pay, absence without leave, and FMLA. Then they will tackle the most current, relevant topics, such as disciplining employees for leave abuse, dealing with medical issues and unacceptable performance, leave and reasonable accommodation, medical documentation, medical exams, and more.

If you attend, you’re going to learn an awful lot about “leave” and you’re going to “enjoy” the training.

The program runs 12:00 – 4:00 each day, with a break from 1:45-2:15 (all times eastern). Participants will receive program materials via email on Friday, September 25.

Download Individual Registration Form

Who Should Attend

Attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO managers and directors; EEO specialists; Reasonable Accommodation Coordinators; federal supervisors and managers; union representatives.

Instructors

Barbara Haga, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste 

Daily Agenda:

Monday, September 28

Leave Use Overview: Course topics: Emergency Paid Sick Leave, Sick Leave: eligibility, notification requirements, medical certification, dealing with abuse, Additional Leave Entitlements, Administrative Leave.

Tuesday, September 29

FMLA Law and Policy: Course topics: FMLA:  eligibility, notification requirements, definition of serious health condition, medical certification, intermittent use, and Paid Family Leave.

Wednesday, September 30

Leave-Related Discipline & Medical Removals: Course topics: The five elements of discipline; leave-related misconduct; documentation necessary to discipline an employee for leave-related misconduct and leave abuse; AWOL charges; excessive absence removals; medical inability to perform removals.

Thursday, October 1 

Reasonable Accommodation: Entitlements and Processes: Course topics: The ADA Amendments Act; the Rehabilitation Act; the reasonable accommodation process; the “regarded as” provision of the ADA; telework and leave as reasonable accommodation; flexible work schedules and alternative work locations; religious accommodation.

Friday, October 2

Medical Documentation, Medical Requests and Record Confidentiality: Course topics: How the ADAAA and GINA impact the collection of medical information; pre- and post-employment medical exams and inquiries; conditional employment offers; medical documentation requests; direct threat; conflicting regulations and contra court decisions.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by September 14):

  • 5 days = $1475
  • 4 days = $1195
  • 3 days = $910
  • 2 days = $630
  • 1 day = $345

Standard Tuition (register September 15 – October 2):

  • 5 days = $1550
  • 4 days = $1285
  • 3 days = $975
  • 2 days = $685
  • 1 day = $395

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through September 14.
Oct
6
Tue
Virtual Training Event: Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations
Oct 6 – Oct 8 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

Investigating harassment in your agency can be an intimidating assignment, one that is rife with innuendo, conflicting accounts, and raw emotions. Ensuring that your investigation is legally compliant and protects employees, while helping the agency minimize liability, is a taxing task. It’s even more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic when most investigations must be done virtually.

Together, these three instructor-led live training sessions will provide a solid basis for a successful and effective approach to conducting legally-sufficient harassment investigations that stand up upon third-party review. Peruse MSPB and EEOC cases and you’ll find that poorly conducted investigations are far more common than they should be, and the cost of these investigations to agencies are bigger than you’d expect.

Understand the differences between EEO and non-EEO harassment. Learn the best techniques to conduct an investigation – whether onsite or virtually. Write a report that covers all the crucial information. And much more.

This open enrollment FELTG Virtual Training Institute program Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations offers opportunities to ask questions of FELTG’s experienced instructors, and get answers in real time. Plus, this program fulfills the requirements for 8-hour annual EEO investigator refresher training.

You can register for any of the sessions individually, or you can register for all three. This program runs from 12:30 – 4:00 eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern. Participants will receive program materials via email on Monday, October 5.

Download Individual Registration Form



Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Session 1: Investigating Harassment: Misconduct Principles

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

Course Description: An effective harassment investigation begins with a solid foundation of misconduct law in the federal workplace. Attorney and FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct, whether it’s on-duty or off-duty. Attendees will learn the five elements of discipline and understand how they relate to the misconduct investigation process. Plus, they’ll learn about evidence standards and burdens of proof in misconduct cases, how Douglas factors play in to an investigation, the importance of nexus, what to do when a witness won’t cooperate, and much more.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
  • Identify and collect relevant penalty evidence during the investigation.
  • Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Session 2: Understanding Harassment and Planning the Investigation

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: What is the scope of the investigation? Who should you interview? What documents are you going to need? Preparing your investigative plan is a critical step in developing a legally sufficient investigation. Attorney Katherine Atkinson will explain the proper role of the investigator and how you can avoid the pitfalls of an insufficient investigation with the proper preparation and knowledge. Plus, she’ll answer important questions about representation: Does the witness have the right to a representative? Does the union have a right to attend the interview – even if the witness doesn’t want the union there? What rights does agency management have in the process?

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment, and the impact that has on the investigations’ legal sufficiency.
  • Identify witness rights and management rights.
  • Recognize the three basic characteristics of evidence in a harassment investigation.

Thursday, October 8, 2020

Session 3: Conducting the Investigation and Writing the Report

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Meghan Droste, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: Attorney Meghan Droste will share legal principles and proven guidance to navigate this most critical and challenging part of harassment investigations: conducting the interviews and gathering relevant evidence. Attendees will leave the session with techniques for questioning, tools for reading body language, suggestions on how to handle difficult personality types, and tips for writing the fact-finding report (FFR) and report of investigation (ROI). Ms. Droste will also share how technology is changing the investigation process, including a very timely discussion of conducting virtual interviews.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the similarities and differences in conducting onsite and virtual interviews.
  • Apply logic and judgment to evaluate conflicting statements.
  • Write a fulsome report on the findings from the harassment investigation.


Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by September 25): One Session = $325  |  Two Sessions = $600  |  Full Event = $850
  • Standard Tuition (register September 26 – October 8): One Session = $375  |  Two Sessions = $650  |  Full Event = $900
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through September 25. Contact FELTG.
  • REGISTER NOW.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are only available through September 25.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Oct
13
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Developing and Defending Discipline: Holding Federal Employees Accountable
Oct 13 – Oct 15 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

Holding federal employees accountable for performance and conduct is easier than you might think. Too many supervisors believe that an employee’s protected activity (EEO complaints, whistleblower disclosures, or union activity) precludes the supervisor from initiating a suspension or removal, but that’s just not true. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s even more imperative your employees are doing the work they are assigned to do, and following all workplace rules along the way.

FELTG is here to make federal supervisors’ and advisers’ lives easier by clarifying those misconceptions while helping supervisors understand how to take defensible misconduct actions quickly and fairly – actions that withstand scrutiny on appeal by the MSPB, EEOC, or in grievance arbitration. Plus, if you have an under-performing employee working for you now, we will show you the steps to take to give the employee an opportunity to demonstrate acceptable performance, and how to determine whether the employee is successful or should be removed. In addition, we’ll discuss how you can defend against allegations of discrimination and hostile work environment claims, and the role of the supervisor and advisor throughout the EEO process.

Join us for this three-day seminar and come away with the tools you need to hold your employees accountable, and defend every action you take.

The program runs from 12:00 – 4:30 eastern each day, with a break from 2:00 – 2:30, and when taken together days 1 & 2 meet OPM’s mandatory training requirements for federal supervisors found at 5 CFR 412.202(b).

Download Individual Registration Form



Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Session 1: Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part I

12:00 pm – 4:30 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

Course Description: This program begins with a discussion on the foundations of accountability and supervisory authority in the federal government. After learning to identify the differences between performance and conduct issues, the seminar will shift the focus to discipline and misconduct theory and practice. From emphasizing the five elements of misconduct, to explaining how an agency can defend its penalty and provide the employee with due process, to a discussion on discipline procedures and appeals, the attendee will receive a thorough education on properly – and legally – handling employee misconduct issues in the federal workplace.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the differences between employee performance and misconduct issues
  • Identify the five elements that must be presents in every discipline case
  • Recognize the supervisor’s and advisor’s roles in disciplinary procedures and appeals

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Session 2: Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part II

12:00 pm – 4:30 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Ann Boehm, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course Description: This session begins with a focus on one of the most misunderstood areas of accountability: poor performance. The conversation includes the requirements to implement a performance demonstration period, initiating and completing a performance-based action, and determining the appropriate outcome after the employee has been given an opportunity to demonstrate acceptable performance. From there, the discussion turns to some tricky supervisory scenarios that become less intimidating after explanation: dealing with attendance issues, properly handling the absent employee, medical removals and dealing with union issues.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the legally-required procedures to hold an employee accountable for poor performance
  • Identify and implement the procedures to deal with leave abuse
  • Acknowledge how dealing with employees in a bargaining unit is different than non-bargaining unit employees

 


Thursday, October 15, 2020

Session 3: Defending Against Discrimination Complaints: The Supervisor’s Role in EEO

12:00 pm – 4:30 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course Description: One of the most intimidating experiences for a federal supervisor is being named in an EEO complaint. Yet, if you are a supervisor for any length of time, there’s a good chance it will happen. This session helps to clarify the federal EEO process so supervisors understand how defend against allegations of discrimination. After an explanation of the protected EEO categories, we’ll cover what to do – and what not to do – if you’re a Responding Management Official in a complaint, and what happens if you’re called as an EEO witness. From there, the program will cover the theories of discrimination, and will provide you with the tools you need to prove your workplace actions were legitimate and non-discriminatory. You’ll sleep better at night after attending this session!

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the theories of discrimination in the federal workplace
  • Recognize the situations where a employees need reasonable accommodation – and your role in the process
  • Understand how to successfully defend against allegations of harassment and discrimination


Pricing

Early Bird Tuition (register by September 30):

  • 3 days = $1015
  • 2 days = $700
  • 1 day = $370

Standard Tuition (register October 1-15):

  • 3 days = $1045
  • 2 days = $730
  • 1 day = $400

Seminar registration includes a PDF copy of the program materials, plus a hard copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th ed., by Wiley and Hopkins. In order to receive the textbook by the training date, please register by September 30 and provide a shipping address. Registrations received after September 30 will also receive a textbook, but materials are not guaranteed to arrive by the training date.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through September 30.
Oct
20
Tue
Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Oct 20 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Oct
27
Tue
Webinar – Solving Problems with Disciplinary and Performance Documents
Oct 27 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Course Description

A majority of federal employees say their managers fail to take the necessary steps to address poor-performing coworkers – in fact, the 2019 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey reported that only 34% of employees are happy with how their supervisors handle poor performers. And there is a general sense throughout government that in most agencies, misconduct is not being handled effectively. The problem often isn’t that supervisors are not addressing performance and conduct problems – it’s that they’re doing it incorrectly.

A poorly chosen word, too many unnecessary words, the wrong charge, too much discussion of evidence – these common occurrences will derail your efforts. FELTG President and Attorney at Law Deborah Hopkins will identify the pitfalls and offer direct guidance on drafting legally-sufficient discipline and performance documents.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Properly assess and draft mitigating and aggravating factors.
  • Identify the pros and cons of the different styles of charges.
  • Draft an effective Performance Demonstration Period initiation memo.

This webinar is part of the Fall 2020 Webinar Series.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Oct 27 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Nov
3
Tue
Webinar – When Employees Can’t Get to Work: What You Need to Know About Medical Removals
Nov 3 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Course Description

One of the hardest things for a supervisor to handle is a legitimately sick employee who stays out of work for an extended period of time.  How long is it reasonable for an employee to stay employed and yet not come to work?  What can a supervisor do if the employee just won’t return? During this 60-minute webinar, Ann Boehm will provide agency advisers and supervisors with the tools needed to remove employees who are medically no longer able to perform their federal jobs.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Use the Cook criteria to determine whether an excessive absence removal is appropriate.
  • Understand the elements of the Medical Inability to Perform charge.
  • Determine when a reasonable accommodation of absence is appropriate.

This webinar is part of the Fall 2020 Webinar Series.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Nov 3 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Nov
10
Tue
Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Nov 10 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Nov
12
Thu
Webinar – Implementing New OPM Regs for More Effective Disciplinary and Performance Actions
Nov 12 @ 11:30 am – 12:30 pm

This event is sold out. Attend the encore (also a live webinar presentation) on December 3. Click here for details and registration.

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Program Description

OPM recently released updated regulations for 5 CFR Parts 315, 432 and 752 that go into effect on November 15. Is your agency ready to implement them? These regulations provide details on processes and build on Executive Order 13839, to make it easier for agencies to terminate poor performers and those involved in misconduct, plus provide new information on probationary periods, clean record settlements, and more.

If you’ve attended FELTG training in the last couple of years, then you have a good head start on implementing these regulations, and this webinar will ensure you have everything in place. If not, we welcome you to join us and buckle up as FELTG President Deborah Hopkins presents a 60-minute webinar to answer the following questions:

  • What types of assistance must agencies give employees during the performance opportunity period?
  • How long should you give employees to respond to allegations of poor performance or misconduct?
  • How should agencies discipline supervisors who retaliate against whistleblowers?
  • Do supervisors need to affirmatively decide to keep probationary employees beyond the initial appointment probationary period?
  • And more!

You cannot afford to miss this webinar. Attendees will learn not only how implement these regulations, but they’ll leave the webinar with the tools to more effectively hold employees accountable for performance and conduct.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (payment required by November 3):
    • 1 line: $170
    • 2-5 lines: $255
    • 6-9 lines: $330
    • 10-15 lines: $415
    • 16-20 lines: $495
  • Standard Tuition (payment made November 4 or later):
    • 1 line: $195
    • 2-5 lines: $290
    • 6-9 lines: $370
    • 10-15 lines: $460
    • 16-20 lines: $545

Additional teleworkers may be added for $40 each, if space is available.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Nov
16
Mon
Virtual Training Event: Workplace Investigations Week
Nov 16 – Nov 20 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

This week focuses on conducting administrative investigations in the federal workplace with an emphasis on employee misconduct including workplace harassment. After an overview of the substantive law, participants will learn procedures and best practices for conducting investigations in the federal workplace, including planning the investigation, factfinding, collecting evidence, dealing with witnesses, understanding types of questioning, and testifying at hearing. The week concludes with a day focused on writing an investigative report.

This program fulfills the requirements for 32-hour EEO Investigator training and 8-hour annual EEO investigator refresher training.

This program runs from 9:30 – 4:00 eastern each day, with a 60-minute break from 12:00 – 1:00. See blow for a detailed agenda.

Download Individual Registration Form



Instructors

Ann BoehmKatherine AtkinsonMeghan Droste

Daily Agenda

Monday

Administrative Investigations: The Substantive Basis: Why investigate; discipline law and elements; understanding charges of misconduct; collecting penalty evidence; the law behind other types of administrative investigations; reprisal investigations.

Tuesday

Harassment Investigations: Investigating allegations of harassment; differentiating between EEO and non-EEO harassment; the EEO process for EEO investigators; special topics.

Wednesday

Conducting the Investigation, Part I: Evidentiary principles; witness rights; union representation; purpose of investigation; preparing for the investigation; role of the investigator; planning the investigation; beginning the interview; exercise.

Thursday

Conducting the Investigation, Part II: Conducting the interview; handling difficult witnesses; assessing credibility/lies/hearing what isn’t said; body language; gathering other evidence; technology and investigations; high-profile case considerations; medical information and investigations.

Friday

Writing the Investigative Report: Organizing for the report; establishing the chronology; writing for your audience; report writing style; report writing conventions; report organization; sample report.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by November 2):

  • 5 days = $2190
  • 4 days = $1795
  • 3 days = $1385
  • 2 days = $980
  • 1 day = $540

Standard Tuition (register November 3-20):

  • 5 days = $2290
  • 4 days = $1895
  • 3 days = $1485
  • 2 days = $1080
  • 1 day = $640

Group discounts are available through November 2. Contact FELTG.

Class Materials

Seminar registration includes a printed copy of the materials. In order to have the best chance to receive materials by the training date, please register by November 2 and provide a shipping address, and your materials will be sent via USPS Priority Mail. Registrations received after November 2 will also receive printed materials, which will be shipped Priority Mail when registration is received; they may not arrive in time for the training.



 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are only available through November 2.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Nov
17
Tue
Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Nov 17 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Dec
1
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Advanced Employee Relations
Dec 1 – Dec 3 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

Let’s face it: being a federal sector Employee Relations Specialist is a tough job. It’s great to know the basics, but the basics don’t always help you when you’re facing complicated or challenging situations. That’s when you realize that there is much more to learn. No worries. The FELTG Virtual Training Institute presents Advanced Employee Relations, a three-day seminar focused on immersing you in the employee relations training you need most.

You’ll receive in-depth training on topics including leave, performance, misconduct, disability accommodation, and more. Plus, interactive workshops will allow you to leave with the tools you’ll need to succeed. And it will all be taught by FELTG Senior Instructor Barbara Haga, one of the most experienced federal employee relations professionals you’ll ever meet.

The program runs 9:00 – 4:00 each day and is approved for 18 HRCI general recertification credits.

Instructor

Barbara Haga

Daily Agenda:

Tuesday, December 1

Leave and Attendance: Administering leave, with particular emphasis on sick leave, LWOP, and FMLA. Detailed review of sick leave provisions including authorized purposes for use of sick leave, limitations on use of sick leave for family care and bereavement, eligibility to use leave for care, notice requirements, acceptable documentation. Management actions to control use of leave and abuse of sick leave. Detailed review of FMLA provisions including eligibility to invoke FMLA, entitlement, coverage of family members, administration and notice requirements. Acceptable medical documentation under FMLA, definition of serious health condition. Substitution of paid leave. Discipline tied to FMLA. LWOP – when LWOP is mandatory, limits on granting LWOP, employee status while on extended LWOP. Other topics –issues related to annual leave and leave transfer, other leave entitlements.

Wednesday, December 2

Performance Management: Managing performance from system establishment to conducting annual appraisals to taking actions linked to performance. GEAR initiative and other efforts focused on modifying Federal performance management system. Requirements for performance plans, including design of agency systems, rating schemes, and procedures for conducting appraisals. Revised DOD performance system to be implemented in 2016. Linkage between appraisal and other personnel management decisions, including reduction-in-force and within-grade increases. Writing effective and measurable performance criteria that will withstand third-party review, including a workshop where participants will do an in-depth review of performance plans. Requirements for successful performance-based actions – from drafting a PIP notice that will withstand scrutiny to conducting a bona fide PIP to ensuring that due process is met in effecting an action on unacceptable performance.

Thursday, December 3

Misconduct and Other Related Issues: Implementation of a successful disciplinary program – delegation of authority, role of advisors, warnings and cautions, use of administrative leave. Nexus. Dealing with comparators in determining a penalty. Involuntary actions – resignations and retirements. Ordering and Offering medical examinations. Specific disciplinary situations: handling situations when an employee is unable to perform including excessive leave, disability retirement, separation disability; conduct unbecoming; misuse and technology-related misconduct; failure to meet conditions of employment.

Pricing

    • Early Bird Tuition (register by November 15):
      • 3 days = $1370
      • 2 days = $970
      • 1 day = $530

      Standard Tuition (register November 16 – December 3):

      • 3 days = $1470
      • 2 days = $1070
      • 1 day = $630

       

Seminar registration includes a printed copy of the materials. In order to have the best chance to receive materials by the training date, please register by November 15 and provide a shipping address, and your materials will be sent via USPS Priority Mail. Registrations received after November 15 will also receive printed materials, which will be shipped Priority Mail when registration is received; they may not arrive in time for the training.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through November 15.
Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Dec 1 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Dec
3
Thu
Webinar – Implementing New OPM Regs for More Effective Disciplinary and Performance Actions
Dec 3 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Program Description

Back for an encore! OPM recently released updated regulations for 5 CFR Parts 315, 432 and 752 that went into effect on November 15. Has your agency implemented them? These regulations provide details on processes and build on Executive Order 13839, to make it easier for agencies to terminate poor performers and those involved in misconduct, plus provide new information on probationary periods, clean record settlements, and more.

If you’ve attended FELTG training in the last couple of years, then you have a good head start on implementing these regulations, and this webinar will ensure you have everything in place. If not, we welcome you to join us and buckle up as FELTG President Deborah Hopkins presents a 60-minute webinar to answer the following questions:

  • What types of assistance must agencies give employees during the performance opportunity period?
  • How long should you give employees to respond to allegations of poor performance or misconduct?
  • Who is responsible for completing the Douglas Factors analysis?
  • How should agencies discipline supervisors who retaliate against whistleblowers?
  • Do supervisors need to affirmatively decide to keep probationary employees beyond the initial appointment probationary period?
  • And more!

Attendees will leave the webinar with the tools to more effectively hold employees accountable for performance and conduct. You cannot afford to miss this training.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (payment required by Nov. 24):
    • 1 line: $170
    • 2-5 lines: $255
    • 6-9 lines: $330
    • 10-15 lines: $415
    • 16-20 lines: $495
  • Standard Tuition (payment made Nov. 25 or later):
    • 1 line: $195
    • 2-5 lines: $290
    • 6-9 lines: $370
    • 10-15 lines: $460
    • 16-20 lines: $545

Additional teleworkers may be added for $40 each, if space is available.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Dec
7
Mon
Access Webinar Recording – Implementing New OPM Regs for More Effective Disciplinary and Performance Actions
Dec 7 – Dec 18 all-day

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Program Description

Did you miss this important event? Register now and we’ll send you a special link and password to view a recorded video of the training on Vimeo. But hurry: This recording will only be available until December 18.

OPM’s updated regulations for 5 CFR Parts 315, 432 and 752 went into effect on November 15. Has your agency implemented them? These regulations provide details on processes and build on Executive Order 13839, to make it easier for agencies to terminate poor performers and those involved in misconduct, plus provide new information on probationary periods, clean record settlements, and more.

If you’ve attended FELTG training in the last couple of years, then you have a good head start on implementing these regulations, and this webinar will ensure you have everything in place. If not, then buckle up as FELTG President Deborah Hopkins presents a fast-paced 60-minute webinar that will answer the following questions:

  • What types of assistance must agencies give employees during the performance opportunity period?
  • How long should you give employees to respond to allegations of poor performance or misconduct?
  • Who is responsible for completing the Douglas Factors analysis?
  • How should agencies discipline supervisors who retaliate against whistleblowers?
  • Do supervisors need to affirmatively decide to keep probationary employees beyond the initial appointment probationary period?
  • And more!

Attendees will leave the webinar with the tools to more effectively hold employees accountable for performance and conduct. You cannot afford to miss this training.

This event is available to view through 5:00 pm eastern on Friday, December 18. Approx. 60 minutes.

Price

$55 per person

Interested in providing access to a large group? Contact us at 844-283-3584, or email [email protected].

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Dec
8
Tue
Webinar Series – FELTG’s Fall 2020 Webinars
Dec 8 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Registration Form

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Katherine Atkinson, Meghan Droste, Bob Woods, Barbara Haga, Joe Schimansky

Series Description

These are demanding times. Even if your agency isn’t laser-focused on pandemic-related efforts, it is most certainly challenged to meet its mission while managing the burdens and stresses of a workplace changed by the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, new issues arise that make navigating the complex and always-changing landscape of federal employment law even more difficult.

FELTG’s fall webinar series provides an opportunity to re-center your efforts, while you re-educate yourself on key legal concepts impacting today’s federal workplace.

Over eight 60-minute webinars, FELTG’s experienced and knowledgeable instructors provide support on everything from harassment to age discrimination, from medical removals to the new Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, from performance and disciplinary documents to whistleblower reprisal, as well as legal updates and recent case law involving EEO and labor relations. Register now for one, a few, or all of the courses in the series.

Sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. ET. Click on any webinar title for a full description.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $240 per site, per webinar (payment required by October 3)
  • Standard Tuition: $270 per site, per webinar (payments made October 4 or later)
  • Register for all eight webinars by October 3 and pay only $1825!

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $40 per teleworker, on a space-available basis. Have a bunch of teleworkers? Contact FELTG for group discounts.

Dec
10
Thu
Webinar – Effectively Handling Security Clearance Suspensions and Revocations
Dec 10 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Program Description

Executive Order 12968.  The Adjudicative Guidelines.  Department of Navy v. Egan.

If these things sound familiar to you, you probably work for an agency that has employees with security clearances – and as a result, handles security clearance revocations. If a federal employee is required to have access to classified information, then he must be eligible for a security clearance in order to keep that position.

What happens when that employee no longer has that clearance? What role does the MSPB play? What proof does the agency need to provide if the employee appeals her removal? What are the pitfalls that agencies need to avoid?

Join Ann Boehm for a 60-minute webinar that will cover how to handle a security clearance revocation and any resulting indefinite suspension or removal from employment. Ms. Boehm spent 26 years as a government attorney, focusing primarily on employment and labor law in federal enforcement agencies, so she’s just the person to answer any questions you might have – and she’ll do so in this live event.

This is an important topic that can’t be ignored. Employee security clearances are a matter of national security, and they must be handled appropriately. We hope you’ll join us.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (payment required by November 30, 2020):
    • 1 line: $170
    • 2-5 lines: $255
    • 6-9 lines: $330
    • 10-15 lines: $415
    • 16-20 lines: $495
  • Standard Tuition (payment made December 1, 2020 or later):
    • 1 line: $195
    • 2-5 lines: $290
    • 6-9 lines: $370
    • 10-15 lines: $460
    • 16-20 lines: $545

Additional teleworkers may be added for $40 each, if space is available.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Feb
10
Wed
Virtual Training Event – UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct
Feb 10 – Feb 11 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Course Description

On his first day in office, President Joseph R. Biden told political appointees he will fire them “on the spot” if they are disrespectful to their federal colleagues. The new boss made it clear: Accountability is a priority.  And there is one course that consistently provides the tools for federal supervisors and advisers to confidently and effectively address poor performance and misconduct.

Now, holding political appointees accountable is a lot easier than doing the same to civil servants. But that doesn’t mean it has to be impossible. Over the course of two half-days, FELTG’s flagship course UnCivil Servant identifies misconceptions about performance and misconduct-based actions and provides you with simple step-by-step guidance for taking swift, appropriate and legally defensible actions. The program also incorporates the very latest guidance, including Executive Order 14003 and OPM regulations on performance and conduct.

The start of a new administration is a perfect time to address accountability, break your experienced supervisors of bad habits that hurt workplace morale, and train your new supervisors the right way. Note: This course fulfills OPM’s mandatory training requirements for new supervisors found at 5 CFR 412.202(b)).

Join FELTG for this special event, from wherever you are working – agency office or home. The program will be presented live, and you’ll have time to ask questions and get answers in real time.

We hope that you never have to fire an employee. But it’s important that you have the right tools should the need arise.

Registrants for both days will also receive a copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Federal Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th Ed., by William Wiley and Deborah Hopkins.

This program runs from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Who Should Attend

Federal supervisors and managers; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO specialists; union representatives.

Agenda

Wednesday, February 10

Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part I: Accountability and supervisory authority; discipline and misconduct theory and practice; the five elements of discipline; off-duty misconduct; penalty defense and due process.

Thursday, February 11

Accountability for Conduct and Performance, Part II: Discipline procedures and appeals; disciplinary documents; defining unacceptable performance; dealing with poor performers; performance-based removal procedures.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $370 per session, $700 for both sessions (register by January 29).
  • Standard Tuition: $400 per session, $730 for both sessions (register January 30 – February 11).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for its Virtual Training Institute events. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is January 29.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Seminar registration includes a PDF copy of the program materials, plus a hard copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th ed., by Wiley and Hopkins. In order to receive the textbook by the training date, please register by January 29 and provide a shipping address. Registrations received after January 29 will also receive a textbook, but materials are not guaranteed to arrive by the training date.

Feb
23
Tue
Virtual Training Event – A Higher Standard: Disciplining Law Enforcement Officers for Misconduct
Feb 23 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

As rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6, it was the heroic actions of an under-staffed Capitol Police team that likely saved numerous lives, including those of many Members of Congress and their staff. Unfortunately, the lives of two Capitol officers have been lost.

The Federal workforce is full of talented and brave law enforcement personnel across many agencies. Yet, just as there is a small minority of misbehaving and toxic Federal workers, the same applies to Federal LEOs. In fact, a number of Federal LEOs have been suspended and others are being investigated as a result of their actions during the riot. And after reports of police officers being identified among the rioters, the promises to be deeper investigations into the infiltration of Federal and non-Federal officers affiliated with hate and white supremacy groups.

This creates a lot of questions regarding LEO conduct:

  • How do conduct standards for LEOs differ from other employees?
  • Are conduct standards for IG employees the same as other LEOs?
  • What kinds of conduct could cause an LEO to have a security clearance revoked?
  • When should an agency consider an indefinite suspensions and invoking the crime provision?
  • What proof does the agency need to provide if the employee appeals her removal?

Attorney and FELTG Instructor Ann Boehm will highlight the Douglas factors that are of specific importance when disciplining officers, explain the MSPB’s role when a security clearance is revoked, discuss Giglio  issues, and identify the pitfalls that agencies need to avoid when disciplining Federal LEOs. The framework provided will apply to all your agency’s discipline cases whether the conduct involves storming the Capitol, lack of candor, insubordination, and everything in between.

Ms. Boehm spent 26 years as a government attorney, more than half of that time focusing primarily on employment and labor law in federal law enforcement agencies, so she’s just the person to answer any questions you might have – and she’ll do so in this live event.

This is an important topic that can’t be ignored. It is a matter of national security and must be handled appropriately. We hope you’ll join us.

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by February 8): $340
  • Standard Tuition (register February 9 or later): $380
  • Rates per registrant.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through February 8. Contact FELTG.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG plans to record this session, and will make the recording available for purchase after the conclusion of the event.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available through February 8.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Mar
2
Tue
Virtual Training Event – Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations
Mar 2 – Mar 4 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

Event Description

Investigating harassment in your Federal agency can be an intimidating assignment, one that is rife with innuendo, conflicting accounts, and raw emotions. Ensuring that your investigation is legally compliant and protects employees, while helping the agency minimize liability, is a taxing task. It’s even more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic when most investigations must be done virtually.

Together, these three instructor-led live training sessions will provide a solid basis for a successful and effective approach to conducting legally-sufficient harassment investigations that stand up upon third-party review. Peruse MSPB and EEOC cases and you’ll find that poorly conducted investigations are far more common than they should be, and the cost of these investigations to agencies are bigger than you’d expect.

Understand the differences between EEO and non-EEO harassment. Learn the best techniques to conduct an investigation – whether onsite or virtually. Write a report that covers all the crucial information. And much more.

This open enrollment FELTG Virtual Training Institute program Conducting Effective Harassment Investigations offers opportunities to ask questions of FELTG’s experienced instructors, and get answers in real time. Plus, this program fulfills the requirements for 8-hour annual EEO investigator refresher training.

You can register for any of the sessions individually, or you can register for all three. This program runs from 12:30 – 4:00 eastern each day, with a 30-minute break from 2:00 – 2:30 eastern. Participants will receive program materials via email on Monday, October 5.

Download Individual Registration Form



Tuesday, March 2, 2021

Session 1: Investigating Harassment: Misconduct Principles

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Deborah J. Hopkins, Attorney at Law, FELTG President

Course Description: An effective harassment investigation begins with a solid foundation of misconduct law in the federal workplace. Attorney and FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct, whether it’s on-duty or off-duty. Attendees will learn the five elements of discipline and understand how they relate to the misconduct investigation process. Plus, they’ll learn about evidence standards and burdens of proof in misconduct cases, how Douglas factors play in to an investigation, the importance of nexus, what to do when a witness won’t cooperate, and much more.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
  • Identify and collect relevant penalty evidence during the investigation.
  • Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Session 2: Understanding Harassment and Planning the Investigation

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm eastern (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Meghan Droste, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: What is the scope of the investigation? Who should you interview? What documents are you going to need? Preparing your investigative plan is a critical step in developing a legally sufficient investigation. Attorney Meghan Droste will explain the proper role of the investigator and how you can avoid the pitfalls of an insufficient investigation with the proper preparation and knowledge. Plus, she’ll answer important questions about representation: Does the witness have the right to a representative? Does the union have a right to attend the interview – even if the witness doesn’t want the union there? What rights does agency management have in the process?

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment, and the impact that has on the investigations’ legal sufficiency.
  • Identify witness rights and management rights.
  • Recognize the three basic characteristics of evidence in a harassment investigation.

Thursday, March 4, 2021

Session 3: Conducting the Investigation and Writing the Report

12:30 pm – 4:00 pm EDT (break from 2:00 – 2:30)
Presented by Katherine Atkinson, Attorney at Law, FELTG Instructor

Course description: Attorney Katherine Atkinson will share legal principles and proven guidance to navigate this most critical and challenging part of harassment investigations: conducting the interviews and gathering relevant evidence. Attendees will leave the session with techniques for questioning, tools for reading body language, suggestions on how to handle difficult personality types, and tips for writing the fact-finding report (FFR) and report of investigation (ROI). Ms. Atkinson will also share how technology is changing the investigation process, including a very timely discussion of conducting virtual interviews.

Learning Objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Identify the similarities and differences in conducting onsite and virtual interviews.
  • Apply logic and judgment to evaluate conflicting statements.
  • Write a fulsome report on the findings from the harassment investigation.


Price

  • Early Bird Tuition (register by February 19): One Session = $340  |  Two Sessions = $650  |  Full Event = $900
  • Standard Tuition (register February 20 – March 4: One Session = $390  |  Two Sessions = $695  |  Full Event = $950
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through February 19. Contact FELTG.
  • REGISTER NOW.

 

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex to broadcast this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more attendees for the full event. Group discounts are only available through February 19.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Mar
11
Thu
Virtual Training Event – UnCivil Servant: Next Level
Mar 11 all-day

Download Registration Form

Course Description

For more than 20 years, FELTG’s flagship course UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct has empowered thousands of federal supervisors to confidently and effectively address poor performance and misconduct. Now it’s time to take those learned skills to a new level. UnCivil Servant: Next Level provides the opportunity for you to test your knowledge and apply it to several challenging scenarios, based on real-life events federal supervisors are likely to encounter.

Poor performance and misconduct lowers morale and holds your agency back from meeting its mission, so you should never fail to hold an employee accountable. Fail to handle it correctly, and you’ll end up in legal hot water. But if you choose to ignore it, your current situation is going to get worse. A lot worse.

This interactive, workshop-based training tackles the intersection of performance and conduct issues with other areas of the law including pending discrimination complaints, allegations of reprisal or hostile work environment, and disability accommodation requests. Plus, it addresses what to do if you’re a supervisor with new or different expectations than your predecessor.

Attendees will leave this training with step-by-step guidance for taking swift, appropriate, and legally defensible actions in even the most challenging of circumstances.

Course Topics: Supervisory authority; employee rights; understanding when a performance or conduct action is appropriate; holding whistleblowers accountable; properly handling reasonable accommodation claims; effectively dealing with probationer issues; a supervisor’s responsibility in hostile work environment claims.

Requirements:

Prerequisite: It is strongly recommended participants have attended either UnCivil Servant, Developing & Defending Discipline, or MSPB Law Week in advance of this class.

Technology: This class will be held in Zoom and is group-workshop focused, so participation is a must. Participants must have access to internet or telephone audio, to participate in breakout group discussions. Webcams use is welcome but not required.

Time: Class will be held from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM eastern, with a break from 12:30-1:30.

Class size: This class size is strictly limited to 18 participants, so register early to guarantee your spot.

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Who Should Attend

Federal supervisors and managers; attorneys; Labor and Employee Relations Specialists; EEO specialists; union representatives.

Price

  • Early Bird Tuition: $625 per attendee (register by February 24).
  • Standard Tuition: $675 per attendee (February 25-March 11).
  • Rates per registrant. No split registrations permitted.
  • Want to register a group? Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Zoom for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • What if I want to attend a session but have a schedule conflict?
    • FELTG also plans to offer this live event periodically, so check our calendar for upcoming dates.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • If an agency wishes to register 10 or more attendees for the full event, a group discount will be applied if all registrations are received and paid for together. Group discount deadline is February 25.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Seminar registration includes a PDF copy of the program materials, plus a hard copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th ed., by Wiley and Hopkins. In order to receive the textbook by the training date, please register by February 25 and provide a shipping address. Registrations received after April 19 will also receive a textbook, but materials are not guaranteed to arrive by the training date.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

Mar
29
Mon
Virtual Training Event – MSPB Law Week
Mar 29 – Apr 2 all-day

Download Individual Registration Form

With one stroke of the pen, President Biden’s Executive Order on Protecting the Federal Workforce revoked President Trump’s Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839 and eradicated the Schedule F classification mandated by Executive Order 13957. This means changes to performance and disciplinary actions, clean record settlements, and more.

Meanwhile, the Federal Circuit, in the precedent-breaking Santos v. NASA, ruled that agencies must have substantial evidence that the employee was performing poorly BEFORE an agency is allowed to put an employee on a performance improvement plan.

As we wait for nominees for the Merit System Protection Board, the civil service world, particularly as it applies to employee relations, continues to change quickly. It’s important to be aware of the laws, regulations, and executive orders that apply to you.

There is one place you can consistently get the best guidance and most up-to-date information you need. MSPB Law Week covers the legal requirements and best practices for disciplinary charges and penalties, plus understanding the law and strategy in handling performance cases and defending against whistleblower reprisal complaints. Join top MSPB practitioners and topic authors, and learn the law, strategies, and techniques from their many years of combined experience.

While the near future of the Merit Systems Protection Board remains uncertain, FELTG’s instructors are staying on top of the situation and will provide attendees with the information they need to know.

The program runs 12:00 – 4:00 pm eastern each day, with a break from 1:45 – 2:15.

Instructors

Deborah Hopkins, Ann Boehm, Bob Woods

Daily Agenda

Monday

The Foundations of Accountability; Adverse Actions: Statutory basis including the Civil Service Reform Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, the five elements of every disciplinary case and the burdens of proof, the fundamentals of penalty selection and defense, discipline procedures and appeals.

Tuesday

Disciplinary Charges: Types of charges, parts of a charge, how charges are interpreted, the role of the proposing and deciding officials, capitalizing on the general charge, allowing the inclusion of lesser-included offenses, charging in the alternative, attractive options to difficult charges and common charging mistakes, proving the difficult “intent” charge element, a step by step approach to charge drafting.

Wednesday

Penalties: MSPB and Federal Circuit lead cases in penalty determination, getting “intent” penalties off of “non-intent” charges, proving harsh penalties off of vanilla charges, charging down and proving up, how the maximum penalty is established, penalty mitigation; law enforcement officer discipline.

Thursday

Unacceptable Performance: Performance actions in perspective, drafting a defensible performance standard, documenting and justifying your decision to put an employee on a Performance Demonstrating Period (DPs, formerly known as PIPs), implementing DPs, defeating the DP rollercoaster; the proof needed to take a performance-based action; removing a poor performer in 31 days.

Friday

Defending Against Whistleblower Reprisal Claims and other Affirmative Defenses: Whistleblower claims: protected disclosures and whistleblower reprisal, claims of harmful error, reprisal for union activity, excessive penalty findings.

Pricing

Most people attend the full training week, but you may opt out of any days you don’t plan to attend.

Early Bird Tuition (register by March 15):

  • 5 days = $1525
  • 4 days = $1245
  • 3 days = $960
  • 2 days = $680
  • 1 day = $395

Standard Tuition (register March 16 – April 2):

  • 5 days = $1600
  • 4 days = $1325
  • 3 days = $1015
  • 2 days = $725
  • 1 day = $445

Seminar registration includes a copy of the textbook UnCivil Servant: Holding Employees Accountable for Performance and Conduct, 5th ed., by Wiley and Hopkins. In order to receive your copy of the textbook by the training date, please register by March 15 and provide a shipping address in the designated space on the registration form.

Event FAQs

  • Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
    • FELTG uses Webex for this Virtual Training Institute event. Many government computers and systems allow Webex access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you’re welcome to use your personal email address to register, and to attend the sessions from your personal device.
  • Can I earn CLE credits for this class?
    • CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees.  If you are seeking CLE credit, attendees may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. Attendees may also request a certificate of completion which will contain the number of training hours attended.
  • Can I share my access link with co-workers?
    • No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.
  • Can I register a teleworker?
    • This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or in an agency facility.
  • How do I receive a group rate discount?
    • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals for the full event. Group discounts are available through March 15.

Cancellation and No-show Policy for Registered Participants: Cancellations made after the cancel date on the registration form will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. Pre-paid training using the “Pay Now” option will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses. No-shows will not be refunded or given credit toward future courses.

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