On-the-Job Injury

What is an On-the-Job Injury?

An OJI is any injury that occurs in the course of normal duties. You may slip and fall in the hallway, you may bruise your wrist catching a bookshelf from toppling over, or get injured due to an altercation with a student.

How and When Do I File an OJI Claim?

MNPS Administrative Policy 5.307.1p addresses injuries on the job. You can download a copy of the policy here.

It is imperative that all injuries, no matter how minor they may appear at first, be reported within the 24-hour reporting period on the appropriate form and that you retain a copy of the submitted information for your own records. Failure to report the injury on the appropriate form and within the required timeline may result in the denial of your claim.

What if I’m Assaulted on School Property?

If you are assaulted by a student, colleague, parent, etc. while on school property and carrying out the responsibilities of your position, file an OJI claim immediately. If you are assaulted by a student, you can request the student be removed from your classroom, possibly permanently, by going through the appropriate procedures outlined in the Teacher Discipline Act (a poorly named law compared to its intent). MNPS has developed local procedures that align to the law that went into effect January 1, 2022 and is included in the Discipline Responses section of the student handbook. 

If you are assaulted by an adult on school property, file a police report in addition to the OJI claim.

What if my Claim is Denied?

TEA Legal Services is unable to assist members with worker’s compensation or on-the-job injury claims as these are outside the scope of our legal services. However, members can receive assistance through the TEA Attorney Referral Program (see informational brochure here) or find a list of attorney in our referral program here.