Course withdrawal can be one of the most frustrating and challenging aspects of teaching on a PT basis, especially if one teaches at more than one institution or is heavily dependent on the income. Unfortunately, such is the nature of PT work; it is inherently insecure and dependent on lots of external factors, many of which are well beyond an individual instructor’s control. Having taught the same class at the same time/date for the last 10 years is not a guarantee that it will be assigned again, will make enrollment the next term, or that one will not be “bumped” for a FTer who is in need of a class. Avenues for recourse, if there are any, depend on the time frame of the withdrawal and an individual instructor’s union status.
The first thing you should do, if you would like to try to be assigned a replacement course, is always to respectfully work with your dean, coordinator, or manager (you may use a simple phone call, but always follow up in writing) to try to find an agreeable alternative course assignment. It helps to be flexible and open to non-ideal schedules/classes and make sure you make it known that you are willing to teach classes that may open up before the semester begins or a late start 12- or 8-week course. Document any correspondence to and from the administration about the loss of an assignment. Ultimately, if you are unable to obtain a replacement course and are heavily dependent on the income, you might attempt to file for unemployment insurance.
If you are a CODAA Member, a contract benefit does provide that you are eligible for a stipend of $200 should a course to which you’ve been assigned be withdrawn within 5 calendar days or fewer of the first day of the class. Withdrawals that occur previous to this 5-day window are not afforded any stipends.
Also for CODAA Members, contractually, the administration should make every effort to assign you classes so that you maintain membership. However, please note that the minimum is 6 hours per academic year.
As always, don’t hesitate to contact CODAA with any questions or concerns.