Paraprofessionals who meet the requirements indicated below are eligible for release time for non-classroom study or travel from work to their college/university. The NYCDOE will grant release time each college semester (fall, spring and the 1st summer session only, not later than June 30th) to eligible paraprofessionals who are attending or taking online coursework at an accredited college or university. Release time during the summer session one may be taken but must be completed by June 30th. Release time will not be granted during the months of July and August. This release time cannot be used to attend classes during the scheduled work day unless agreed upon by the school principal or the principal’s designee. However, we do encourage paraprofessionals to take courses during the late afternoon, evenings and/or weekends to avoid conflict with their work schedules. Paraprofessionals may not take classes during their regularly scheduled school day. Release time shall also be granted to paraprofessionals who do not participate in the Career Training Program. Release time does not apply to substitute paraprofessionals. During the fall, spring and summer semesters, the Department of Education will grant 2 ½ hours of release time, per week with pay for study and/or travel to an accredited college. The paraprofessional must complete a total of at least five semester hours/credits during that same semester of undergraduate study to be eligible for release time.