Case Study #4 - John

John works at Parkside Psychiatric Center as a Psychiatric Social Worker 1. He has worked there in this title since he finished his education toward his social work degree in 2000.

John began his career in NYS employment as a permanent Mental Hygiene Assistant Therapy Aid (MHATA) in 1978 when he worked at the old Queens Psychiatric Center. He was represented by another union during that time.

John has submitted his request for a two-week vacation. Another Social Worker 1, Danielle, works on the same ward and has requested the same two weeks for her vacation. She started working for NYS immediately after becoming a social worker in 1998.

Danielle's vacation request was approved and John’s was denied.

When John requested an explanation, the supervisor stated that John was the least senior social worker and, according to the contract, Danielle was entitled to the vacation of her choice based on her seniority. She has worked at Parkside longer and has been a social worker longer than John. John thinks that this is all wrong and comes to you for help. He said he is considering calling in sick if he doesn’t get the vacation.