New Hire Information

Last Updated: 6/14/2023 7:36 PM

Welcome and congratulations on your new employment with Thomas County Schools!  On this page you will find links to important documents and information related to your employment.  All questions may be directed to Brandi Norton, Benefits Coordinator via email or 229-584-9120.

State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) Decision Guide
Detailed information on the health insurance plans offered by State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP).  More information can be found in the Employee Benefit Center.

Health Insurance Marketplace
You are not required to enroll in health insurance through Thomas County Schools.  This document provides information about the Health Insurance Marketplace where additional options for health insurance may be found.

Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) Member's Guide
Helpful information for employees in TRS covered positions.  Click here to watch a video introducing you to TRS.

Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS) Member's Guide
Helpful information for employees in PSERS covered positions.  Click here to watch a video introducing you to PSERS.

Employee Self-Service (ESS) User Guide
Step by step instructions on navigating ESS to access check stubs, view leave balances or change addresses, tax withholding or direct deposits.  Access Employee-Self-Service here.

The Code of Ethics for Educators
Ethics rules and guidelines from the Official Code of Georgia Annotated

Tobacco Use Policy
Thomas County Schools Employee Tobacco Use Policy

Drug-Free Workplace Policy and Drug Screening of Bus Drivers
Thomas County Schools Drug-Free Workplace and Driver Screening Policies.

Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) 
Information regarding employees' rights as they relate to FMLA.

403(b) Plan Summary
Provides information on our 403(b) retirement savings plan.  Access the plan's Enrollment Booklet
Access the current calendar year's Universal Availability Notice here.

457(b) Plan Summary
Provides information on our 457(b) retirement savings plan.  Access the plan's Enrollment Booklet.

Employee Leaves & Absences
Details various types of employee leave and accrual rates for different positions.

Sick Leave Bank Guidelines
Full description of the Sick Leave Bank including purpose, process and requirements.

PAGE Membership
Become a member of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators.  Application here.  Information video here.  Contact Michele Dechman for more information (800-334-6861).

GAE Membership
Become a member of the Georgia Association of Educators.  Application here.  Contact GAE directly for more information (678-837-1100).

Path2College 529 Plan
Begin saving for your child's college education through payroll deducted contributions, offering state and federal income tax benefits.

Envision Credit Union
ECU's Success for Educators brings financial benefits to all teachers and school related employees through classroom grants and educator discounts.  Visit any Envision Credit Union location to become a member.  Click here to learn more about the many services offered by ECU.