Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Permanent classified employees who have successfully passed the six month probationary period. Supervisors, Administrators, and Faculty have their respective professional development processes. We do not provide funding to temporary classified employees or student help.
How do I apply?
Classified Professional Development (PD) funding requests are submitted through the ARC Travel Authorization Program (Travel Authorization and Reimbursement [TAR] Claim system).
Applicants should plan their request based on applicable Classified PD application deadlines, TAR approval timelines, and—when applicable—registration payment due dates. Requests that depend on PD funding approval and advance payment (registration prepayment or cash advance) must be submitted early enough to allow for required approvals, PD Committee review, and payment processing.
To Apply:
- Initiate and complete a TAR Claim (Step 1 – Request to Attend) through the ARC Travel Authorization Program.
- Select the option to apply for Professional Development funding within the TAR Claim.
- Upload required supporting documentation, including:
- Information related to the conference or activity
- Estimated cost documentation (registration, travel, lodging, etc.)
All approvals are completed electronically through the TAR system.
For detailed guidance on Professional Development (PD) planning, including how PD funding interacts with TAR approval, review timelines, registration prepayment, cash advances, and travel requirements, please refer to the Professional Development section of the Travel Authorization and Reimbursement (TAR) Claim FAQs and Travel Section Guidelines.
What type of professional development activities are eligible for funding?
The classified professional development committee does not maintain a list of eligible activities. Typical activities include conferences, workshops, seminars, and trainings. You must explain how the PD activity benefits you, the college, your colleagues, and/or students and how it meets one or more of the college’s PD Guidelines, Goals, and Competencies.
How much funding will I get from the Classified PD Committee?
The committee may award up to $1,000 per applicant per fiscal year (July 1st – June 30th).
Am I guaranteed the maximum amount every year?
No. We have a limited amount of funds available and it is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What can I use the funds for?
Individual funds can be used to pay for registration, travel, lodging, certain meals, and certain incidental expenses related to training. It cannot be used for tuition, credit-based courses, media, gift cards, or supplies.
I have questions about the Travel Authorization form.
Please contact the Business Services Office, x8481, or externally at (916) 484-8481.