Calendar

Download Individual Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Description

The MSPB has a lot of work to do after a five-year absence of a quorum. FELTG’s quarterly review of Board cases is back, helping you keep up as the MSBP continues to chip away at hundreds of Petitions for Review, several of which involve important federal workplace issues.

FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will discuss the newest and most critical decisions coming out of MSPB and explain what those decisions mean for you and your agency.

Class Time

The class will run from 1:00 – 3:00 pm eastern.

Pricing

• Early Bird Tuition: $320 (payment required by October 5)
• Standard Tuition: $350 (payments made October 6 or later)
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available until October 5. 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. You may also attend the training event as an audio training, by dialing in over the phone and following along with the materials independently.
• 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 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?
  • Group rates are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals. Group discounts are available until October 5.

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.

Download Registration Form

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Program Description

President Biden recently issued a pardon for people convicted of simple possession of marijuana. Recreational marijuana is legal in over a dozen states and the District of Columbia, and its use for medical purposes is now legal in 30-plus states. What does that mean for Federal workers in those locations? Could their careers still go up in smoke for a “legal” activity? Are you required to accommodate an employee’s medically certified marijuana usage? What should you do if the Federal employee is married to someone who legally grows marijuana? Should you overlook an employee’s suspected marijuana usage because it makes him more pleasant to work with?

FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will review the laws that apply to Federal employees and share the most effective approach to managing and/or disciplining employees when their drug usage seeps into the workplace.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Craft the right charge when disciplining an employee for marijuana usage.
• Determine when it’s appropriate to require an employee to take a drug test.
• Handle an employee who has lied about previous marijuana usage.

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by October 12)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made October 13 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $50 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Download Individual Registration Form

Program Description

Two years ago, the Office of Personnel Management’s updated regulations to build on President Trump’s Executive Order 13839 took effect. Three months later, President Biden issued Executive Order 14003, which revoked EO 13839. With no new OPM regulations, confusion had settled in.

But on November 10, 2022, OPM released its final regulations implementing Executive Order 14003, and they go into effect December 12. The regs provide guidance on whether you:

• Can use clean-record agreements in settlements.
• Must notify employees that their probationary period is ending.
• Should provide assistance to employees on performance demonstration periods.
• Are required to use progressive discipline in cases of employee misconduct.

In this 60-minute webinar, FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will provide a point-by-point summary of the new OPM regulations and answer all of your questions. Attendees will leave this session knowing which tools they can use to effectively hold employees accountable for performance and conduct. You cannot afford to miss this training.

Date and Time

Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 2:30 – 3:30pm ET.

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by December 2)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made December 3 or later)

Additional teleworkers may be added for $60 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.

Download Registration Form Here

Program Description

As the new year turned, former FLRA Chair Ernest DuBester’s holdover term ended, leaving just two Authority members — Democrat Susan Tsui Grundmann (the new Chair) and Colleen Duffy Kiko (a former FLRA Chair). No one has yet been nominated. There is also no nominee yet for General Counsel, putting the Acting GC on borrowed time.

How will this “ideological deadlock,” as one report coined it, impact the FLRA’s rulings — or will it? And what happens if there is no one serving as General Counsel?

In this 60-minute webinar, FELTG Instructor Ann Boehm will share guidance on how you can navigate this new situation at the FLRA, discuss where to put your focus, and explain what happens when the Authority is without a General Counsel.

Date and Time

Thursday, February 2, 2023, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Registration

Download Registration Form Here

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by January 23)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made after January 24)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $60 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Program Description

As employees return en masse to the physical workplace and attempt to re-adjust themselves to their new surroundings, it’s highly likely that you’ll see some drops in performance – especially as employees struggle to acclimate to the hybrid work format. Let’s say you put the employee on a performance demonstration period and he does well enough to stay in his position. But weeks after the PIP, ODAP, DP – or whatever your agency calls it – his performance again becomes unacceptable.

What do you do?

And what has the new MSPB said about this?

Although performance swings are expected to recur more often in the next several months, this is not a new challenge — and it doesn’t appear to be one likely to go away. You can’t afford to ignore this. Attorney Bob Woods will provide you step-by-step guidance on effectively and efficiently handling wide swings in performance, and he’ll share the most recent MSPB decisions.

Date and Time

Thursday, March 2, 2023, 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET.

Instructor

Bob Woods

Registration

Download Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by February 21)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made February 22 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $60 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Program Description

Few situations draw as much angst among supervisors as when they have an employee with a physical or mental impairment who is failing to meet conduct standards. With the rise in mental health diagnoses, substance abuse disorders and the physical challenges that come with an aging workforce, Federal supervisors can expect more of these gut-wrenching situations.

Over the course of 60 minutes, FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will walk you through a step-by-step process for effectively managing misconduct for employees who have medical issues.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Determine whether disability should be a mitigating factor in discipline.
• Appropriately charge Absence Without Leave.
• Determine the best course of action for an employee who is unable to come to work because of a medical issue.

Date and Time

Thursday, April 6, 2023, 100 – 2:00pm ET.

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Registration

Download Registration Form Here

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by March 27)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made after March 28)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $60 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Course Description

Most disputes in federal agencies settle employment disputes — whether they initiate as grievances, EEO complaints, or as appeals of agency disciplinary actions. While it’s common to assume that settlement means the agency has a flaw in its case, it has no direct tie to liability or admissions of wrongdoing. Often, it’s the most efficient and effective way to handle a dispute and allow you to get back to focusing on your agency’s mission.

During this interactive half-day virtual training, Bob Woods will discuss the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in settlement discussions, and will cover considerations for why and when to consider settlement as an option. In addition, he’ll explain concepts including confidentiality, legality, and enforceability.

Mr. Woods will also cover specific settlement terms that may be negotiated including references, compensatory damages, reinstatement or promotions, modifications to benefits, clean records, and more.

Learning objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

Date and Time

Wednesday, April 12, 2023, 1:00 – 4:30 pm eastern.

Instructor

Bob Woods

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

• Early Bird Tuition (register by March 28): $370
• Standard Tuition (March 29 or later): $395
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through March 28. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through March 28. 

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.

Course Description

If you’ve attended FELTG accountability training, you know the numerous pitfalls that can derail an agency’s disciplinary action, whether it’s suspension, demotion, or removal. But even when executed correctly, traditional discipline can sometimes make a bad situation worse. For example: You suspend an employee and create more work for everyone else on the team. Sometimes, the most “effective and efficient” approach is not a traditional disciplinary action. Late last year, OPM issued regulations that removed a prohibition on clean record agreements, returning to agencies a tool “to resolve informal and formal complaints.” It is one of many alternative disciplinary tools Federal supervisors have. In this two-hour virtual training, FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will explain why, how, and when to use numerous alternative actions, including not just clean record agreements, but also:

• Last chance agreements
• Last rites agreements
• Paper suspensions
• Reprimands in lieu of suspensions
• And more

The goal of discipline is to rehabilitate. In certain circumstances, alternative sanctions are the more effective approach. You’ll leave this session knowing how to identify the right disciplinary alternative for your situation and the appropriate steps to see it all the way through successfully. Attendees will learn how to:

• Appropriately draft documents for alternative discipline.
• Explain the difference between last chance agreements and last rites agreements.
• Discuss the benefits of reprimand in lieu of suspension.

Registrants 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. Register now for this engaging, timely, and highly useful training. The program will be held from 1 – 3 pm ET.

Date and Time

Wednesday, May 17, 2023, 1:00 – 3:00 pm eastern.

Instructor

Deborah J. Hopkins

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $345 (payment required by May 2)
• Standard Tuition: $375 (payments made May 3 or later)
• Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through May 2. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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 available through May 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.

Course Description

Since the MSPB finally had its quorum restored, it has diligently been tackling the backlog of PFRs using a hybrid approach on case processing. But one thing has become crystal clear about the MSPB’s approach — whistleblower cases are a priority.

Join Attorney at Law Bob Woods for an in-depth look at how the new MSPB has ruled on whistleblower cases since the Board was sworn in. In addition, Mr. Woods will share everything else you need to know about whistleblower reprisal – the standards, burdens of proof, and actions that constitute reprisal. Plus, he’ll discuss how to defend your agency against a whistleblower reprisal allegation.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Handle whistleblower disclosures that turn out to be false.
• Recognize what constitutes whistleblower reprisal, and how to avoid it.
• Discipline a whistleblower for misconduct unrelated to whistleblowing.

Date and Time

Tuesday, May 23, 2023, 1:00 – 2:30 pm ET.

Instructor

Bob Woods

Registration

Download Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $295 per site (payment required by May 11)
• Standard Tuition: $325 per site (payments made May 12 or later)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $60 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Course Description

Discovery is a critical and effective part of any litigation – when conducted properly. Annoying and abusive discovery techniques could have negative consequences, and possibly even lead to sanctions. From disrespect and profanity in depositions to the other party refusing to produce requested documents, it’s important to be prepared for any situation. In this half-day class, Attorney at Law Katherine Atkinson will provide you with a grounding in the Federal Rules of Evidence, as well as the procedural methods for the MSPB and EEOC. Ms. Atkinson will offer guidance on all forms of written discovery – interrogatories, document requests, depositions, and requests for admission – and she’ll review possible sanctions and how best to avoid them.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Most effectively request and respond to requests for written discovery.
• Recognize actions that could lead to sanctions.
• Differentiate between the discovery procedures of the MSPB and EEOC.

Date and Time

May 24, 2023, 1 – 4:30 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by May 9): $370
• Standard Tuition (register May 10 or later): $395
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through May 9. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through May 9. 

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.

Course Description

Any effective misconduct investigation starts with a solid foundation of the law and an understanding of the full scope of your investigation.

In this two-hour class, Ann Boehm will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct and harassment, including the five elements of discipline, evidence standards, burdens of proof, and more. She’ll share guidance on developing the investigation, from creating a plan to determining who to interview and gathering relevant documents.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
• Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.
• Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment.

Date and Time

July 25, 2023, 1 – 3 pm ET

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by July 10): $295
• Standard Tuition (register July 11 or later): $325
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through July 11. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through July 11. 

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.

Course Description

Most disputes in federal agencies settle employment disputes — whether they initiate as grievances, EEO complaints, or as appeals of agency disciplinary actions. While it’s common to assume that settlement means the agency has a flaw in its case, it has no direct tie to liability or admissions of wrongdoing. Often, it’s the most efficient and effective way to handle a dispute and allow you to get back to focusing on your agency’s mission.

During this interactive half-day virtual training, Bob Woods will discuss the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in settlement discussions, and will cover considerations for why and when to consider settlement as an option. In addition, he’ll explain concepts including confidentiality, legality, and enforceability.

Mr. Woods will also cover specific settlement terms that may be negotiated including references, compensatory damages, reinstatement or promotions, modifications to benefits, clean records, and more.

Learning objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

Date and Time

Wednesday, August 23, 2023, 1:00 – 4:30 pm eastern.

Instructor

Bob Woods

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

• Early Bird Tuition (register by August 8): $370
• Standard Tuition (August 9 or later): $395
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through August 8. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through August 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.

Course Description

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is already accepting charges for the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. Has your agency received any PWFA claims? Are you even aware of your responsibilities under the PWFA? Does the act create a new EEO category? How do pregnancy protections under the PWFA differ from those under Title VII and the Americans with Disabilities Act?

In this two-hour presentation, Attorney at Law Katie Atkinson will share everything you need to know about the PWFA. Attendees will learn how to:

• Identify reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees.
• Recognize actions prohibited under the WPFA.
• Understand how the EEOC will analyze charges regarding accommodations for employees affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Date and Time

September 14, 2023, 1 – 3 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by August 30): $295
• Standard Tuition (register August 31 or later): $325
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through August 30. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through August 30. 

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.

Course Description

In this half-day training, FELTG Instructor and Attorney at Law Katherine Atkinson will provide the foundation you need to jumpstart your DEIA efforts or take them to the next level. After an overview of civil rights law, Ms. Atkinson will share everything you need to know to foster DEIA at your agency, including:

• What the EO says about agency obligations to underserved communities
• What you should know about preventing and correcting harassment and discrimination in the workplace
• Ensuring adherence to the Merit Systems principles, especially as they apply to the hiring process
• Why and how some agencies are focusing on the concept of belonging
• What microaggressions look like
• How to determine your own implicit biases

Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the unique problems you’re facing during these unprecedented times.

Learning objectives:

Date and Time

Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 1 – 4:30 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by September 11): $370
• Standard Tuition (September 12 or later): $395
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through September 11. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through September 11. 

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.

Program Description

Few situations draw as much angst among supervisors as when they have an employee with a physical or mental impairment who is failing to meet conduct standards. With the rise in mental health diagnoses, substance abuse disorders and the physical challenges that come with an aging workforce, Federal supervisors can expect more of these gut-wrenching situations.

Over the course of 60 minutes, FELTG President Deborah Hopkins will walk you through a step-by-step process for effectively managing misconduct for employees who have medical issues.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Determine whether disability should be a mitigating factor in discipline.
• Appropriately charge Absence Without Leave.
• Determine the best course of action for an employee who is unable to come to work because of a medical issue.

Date and Time

Thursday, October 26, 2023, 1:00 – 2:00pm ET.

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Registration

Download Registration Form Here

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $270 per site (payment required by October 11)
• Standard Tuition: $295 per site (payments made after October 12)

Teleworkers may be added to a main site registration for $60 per teleworker, on a space-available basis.

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.

Course Description

If you’ve attended FELTG accountability training, you know the numerous pitfalls that can derail an agency’s disciplinary action, whether it’s suspension, demotion, or removal. But even when executed correctly, traditional discipline can sometimes make a bad situation worse. For example: You suspend an employee and create more work for everyone else on the team. Sometimes, the most “effective and efficient” approach is not a traditional disciplinary action. Late last year, OPM issued regulations that removed a prohibition on clean record agreements, returning to agencies a tool “to resolve informal and formal complaints.” It is one of many alternative disciplinary tools Federal supervisors have. In this two-hour virtual training, FELTG Instructor Ann Boehm  will explain why, how, and when to use numerous alternative actions, including not just clean record agreements, but also:

• Last chance agreements
• Last rites agreements
• Paper suspensions
• Reprimands in lieu of suspensions
• And more

The goal of discipline is to rehabilitate. In certain circumstances, alternative sanctions are the more effective approach. You’ll leave this session knowing how to identify the right disciplinary alternative for your situation and the appropriate steps to see it all the way through successfully. Attendees will learn how to:

• Appropriately draft documents for alternative discipline.
• Explain the difference between last chance agreements and last rites agreements.
• Discuss the benefits of reprimand in lieu of suspension.

Registrants 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. Register now for this engaging, timely, and highly useful training. The program will be held from 1 – 3 pm ET.

Date and Time

Tuesday, November 14, 2023, 1:00 – 3:00 pm eastern.

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition: $345 (payment required by October 30)
• Standard Tuition: $375 (payments made October 31 or later)
• Want to register a group? Group discounts are available through October 30. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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 available through October 30.

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.

Course Description

Discovery is a critical and effective part of any litigation – when conducted properly. Annoying and abusive discovery techniques could have negative consequences, and possibly even lead to sanctions. From disrespect and profanity in depositions to the other party refusing to produce requested documents, it’s important to be prepared for any situation. In this half-day class, Attorney at Law Katherine Atkinson will provide you with a grounding in the Federal Rules of Evidence, as well as the procedural methods for the MSPB and EEOC. Ms. Atkinson will offer guidance on all forms of written discovery – interrogatories, document requests, depositions, and requests for admission – and she’ll review possible sanctions and how best to avoid them.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Most effectively request and respond to requests for written discovery.
• Recognize actions that could lead to sanctions.
• Differentiate between the discovery procedures of the MSPB and EEOC.

Date and Time

December 12, 2023, 1 – 4:30 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by November 27): $370
• Standard Tuition (register November 28 or later): $395
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through November 27. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through November 27. 

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.

Course Description

Any effective misconduct investigation starts with a solid foundation of the law and an understanding of the full scope of your investigation.

In this two-hour class, Ann Boehm will explain the principles that underpin a successful investigation of federal employee misconduct and harassment, including the five elements of discipline, evidence standards, burdens of proof, and more. She’ll share guidance on developing the investigation, from creating a plan to determining who to interview and gathering relevant documents.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Identify the relationship between the foundations of federal accountability and misconduct investigations.
• Recognize the mistakes that derail effective misconduct and harassment investigations.
• Discern the difference between EEO and non-EEO harassment.

Date and Time

January 17, 2024, 1 – 3 pm ET

Instructor

Ann Boehm

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by January 2): $345
• Standard Tuition (register January 3-17): $385
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through January 2. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through January 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.

Course Description

Your agency has ordered some employees to return to the physical workplace, and one of them hasn’t shown up for work for three days straight. He hasn’t contacted his supervisor either. Is the best way to discipline the employee to charge him with AWOL?  What if he comes up with a reasonable explanation for his absence?  Can you deny a leave request when an employee was AWOL?

When it comes to AWOL, there are a lot of questions. And a lot of misunderstandings. For example: Considering the following statements:

• You can’t discipline an employee for AWOL unless it has reached a certain number of days.
• Employees can’t be removed for AWOL.
• You can’t be charged AWOL for time that you were physically present in the office.

None of these statements are true; they are AWOL myths.

In this 60-minute presentation, FELTG President Deborah J. Hopkins will deconstruct the mystery of Absence Without Leave (and its companion charge, Unauthorized Absence), shatter the aforementioned myths, and offer strategies for agencies to take when an employee doesn’t show up for work.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Understand the elements of the charges Absent Without Leave and Unauthorized Absence
• Determine reasonable penalties when AWOL is charged
• Identify situations where a perceived AWOL might be another type of absence

Date and Time

Thursday, February 1, 1 -2 pm ET

Instructor

Deborah Hopkins

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Pricing

• Early Bird Tuition (register by January 2): $145
• Standard Tuition (register January 3 or later): $195
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through January 2. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through January 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.

Course Description

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has been accepting charges under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act since mid-2023 and they are expected to release regulations any day now. If you’re looking for training that will include the latest information and provide everything you need to know about the PWFA, including a discussion of those new regulations, look no further.

In this two-hour presentation, Attorney at Law Katie Atkinson will answer questions, such as: What are your responsibilities under the PWFA? Does the act create a new EEO category? How do pregnancy protections under the PWFA differ from those under Title VII and the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Attendees will learn also how to:

• Identify reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees.
• Recognize actions prohibited under the WPFA.
• Understand how the EEOC will analyze charges regarding accommodations for employees affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Date and Time

February 7, 2024, 1 – 3 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by January 8): $345
• Standard Tuition (register January 9 or later): $385
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through January 8. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through January 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.

Course Description

Whether you’re an EEO professional or a supervisor, you’ve probably been to many EEO training classes on hostile work environment harassment – but you haven’t attended anything like this one.  You already know that when harassment rears its ugly head, you can’t ignore it. Sometimes, though, the challenge is knowing when it’s happening, especially when it takes the form of subtle microaggressions or occurs in a virtual environment, miles away from a supervisor’s oversight.

In this two-hour virtual training event, Attorney Katherine Atkinson will guide you through an interactive look at the legal framework for hostile environment harassment. She will also unpack a number of complex cases on topics including harassment for LGBTQ+ status, pregnancy, national origin, and more. Attend this training and learn to recognize all the forms of hostile work environment harassment in 2024, and take quick effective action to stop it.

Attendees will learn how to:

• Understand the agency’s responsibilities when allegations of hostile work environment occur.
• Determine if and when microaggressions rise to the level of a hostile work environment.
• Identify emerging or increasing types of harassment in 2024.

Date and Time

February 20, 2024, 1 – 3 pm ET

Instructor

Katherine Atkinson

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

Price

• Early Bird Tuition (register by January 21): $345
• Standard Tuition (register January 22 – February 20): $385
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through January 21. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through January 21. 

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.

Course Description

Most disputes in federal agencies settle employment disputes — whether they initiate as grievances, EEO complaints, or as appeals of agency disciplinary actions. While it’s common to assume that settlement means the agency has a flaw in its case, it has no direct tie to liability or admissions of wrongdoing. Often, it’s the most efficient and effective way to handle a dispute and allow you to get back to focusing on your agency’s mission.

During this interactive half-day virtual training, Bob Woods will discuss the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in settlement discussions, and will cover considerations for why and when to consider settlement as an option. In addition, he’ll explain concepts including confidentiality, legality, and enforceability.

Mr. Woods will also cover specific settlement terms that may be negotiated including references, compensatory damages, reinstatement or promotions, modifications to benefits, clean records, and more.

Learning objectives

Attendees will learn how to:

Date and Time

Wednesday, April 10, 2024, 1:00 – 4:30 pm eastern.

Instructor

Bob Woods

Registration

Download Individual Registration Form

• Early Bird Tuition (register by March 11): $495
• Standard Tuition (March 12 or later): $595
• Rates per registrant.
• Want to register a group? Group discounts for 10 or more attendees are available through March 25. Contact FELTG.

Event FAQs

• Can I attend Virtual Training from my government computer?
  • FELTG uses Zoom to broadcast 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.
• 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. Group discounts are available through March 11. 

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.