School district reviews substitute teacher policies after CalPERS coding confusion

Retirees seeking clarity on substitute teaching roles faced a complex discussion during the recent Retiree Town Hall with CalPERS Board Member Yvonne Walker. The meeting, held on June 20, 2025, highlighted confusion surrounding the coding and regulations for retirees returning to work as substitutes in California school districts.

A retiree raised concerns about the ambiguity in the documentation regarding substitute positions, particularly for roles like office managers. The retiree questioned whether they could legally substitute without facing penalties, especially as some districts have halted substitute hiring pending clarification from CalPERS. Walker explained that the confusion stemmed from school districts using incorrect government codes for hiring substitutes, which were intended for higher-level positions.

Walker emphasized that the proper coding should allow retirees to fill in temporarily for absent staff, as long as it is not a permanent hire. "Yes, you should be allowed," she affirmed, addressing the retiree's concerns directly. However, she acknowledged that some districts were interpreting the regulations differently, leading to further complications.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of these coding issues, with Walker noting that many districts were still navigating the changes and ensuring compliance with CalPERS guidelines. She indicated that the situation would take time to resolve, given the varying practices across districts.

In a related topic, another retiree expressed frustration over insurance provider disputes, particularly with UC Davis Medical Group. They suggested that insurance companies should be discouraged from dropping major providers mid-term and proposed allowing open enrollment during significant events to ease transitions for retirees.

Walker assured attendees that their suggestions would be communicated to the healthcare team, highlighting the ongoing commitment to address retiree concerns effectively. The meeting underscored the importance of clear communication and proper coding in ensuring that retirees can navigate their post-retirement work options without confusion or penalty.