Teacher’s doctor advises she teach virtually but district won’t allow it

Q: I am a performing arts teacher at an elementary school. I have been suffering from depression and am returning from six weeks of leave. Since I am new, I do not qualify for FMLA so my HR office gave me an accommodation when my doctor ordered me to stay home for six weeks to attend to my medical needs.

I have been released to return to work, but my doctor thinks it would be a good idea for me to teach from home three days per week. My school system states that this is not the best accommodation and is instead authorizing me to use unpaid leave up to two days per week as my accommodation. I don’t think this will be effective for me as the stress from the job and interactions with my supervisors also create additional anxiety and depression. How can I fight this? I feel I can teach from home as we did during the lockdown. I think my school system is being unreasonable.  

A: I’m sorry to hear that you’re suffering from depression. I understand your frustration and commend you for prioritizing your well-being. Before advising you, I consulted a human resources professional who works in a large public school district. She feels for you, too, but added that your school system has been “more than reasonable.” In other words, you might be fighting an expensive and uphill battle.