In 2008, House Bill 2916 initiated a new State of Kansas compensation system for classified employees. An important aspect of the new compensation system is the new Performance Management Process. Under the new Performance Management Process, all State of Kansas classified employees are consistently evaluated within all agencies. The new Performance Management Process became effective in 2009. The new pay plans will be linked to performance beginning with the 2011 fiscal year (June 13, 2010).
With the Performance Management Process, mid-year discussions and annual evaluations are conducted on a set range of dates. For most employees the first mid-year discussions will occur between April 1 and June 30 and annual evaluations will be due between October 1 and December 23 every year.
The Performance Management Process is a continuous process where supervisors and employees work together to establish objectives (goals), monitor progress toward these objectives and assess results. With this process, employees receive regular feedback and coaching which is a vital development process for all employees.
The following is a listing of statutes, regulations and policies relevant to this chapter:
Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) 75-2949e, Dismissals, Demotions and Suspensions
Policies and Procedures Manual, Chapter 4020, Disciplinary Action Procedures
The Performance Management Process is used to identify performance expectations and provide feedback to the employee. Ongoing communication throughout the entire review period between supervisors and the employees who report to them is essential.
The Performance Management Process includes the following four components:
Performance Planning: A discussion at the beginning of the review period between the supervisor and employee to identify and clarify performance expectations for the review period.
Coaching and Feedback: The daily process of communicating with employees — managing behavior and performance to help employees meet performance expectations.
Reviewing and Appraising Performance: The process of evaluating performance against established performance expectations for a specific time period.
Recognizing and Rewarding Performance: Provide monetary and non-monetary rewards for achieving and exceeding performance expectations. Recognition reinforces and rewards successful past performance and encourages continued successful performance in the future; however, it must be timely, sincere, specific and earned.
New pay plans are under development and will be implemented in fiscal year 2011 to address the monetary component of this process.
Nonmonetary awards are encouraged when employee has achieved a critical objective and/or has made significant progress toward achieving a complex or long-term critical objective. Non-monetary rewards include thank you notes, coffee or lunch, certificate of recognition, etc.
The type, length, and circumstances for performance reviews for classified employees vary; however, the Performance Management Process is to be used in all instances. There are three categories of performance reviews, each with unique characteristics: a) probationary, b) annual, and c) special reviews.
The probationary period is a test of an employee's ability to meet expectations. Recommendations to enhance employee's performance should reflect the skills to be demonstrated, the training to be completed, and the knowledge to be acquired during the probation. One or more feedback sessions should be conducted during the probation period. Prior to the expiration of each employee's probationary period, a performance review shall be completed and submitted to the Division of Human Resources. Failure to notify the employee of the rating or an approved extension by the end of any probationary period shall mean that the employee has been granted permanent status. A request for any extension must also be submitted to the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources, prior to the end of the probationary period.
When a probationary employee is on leave, with or without pay, for 30 consecutive calendar days or more, the probationary period will be adjusted to the extent of the leave. Temporary employees do not serve a probationary period; nor do those who are rehired following a lay off.
There are circumstances that require a probationary period and review.
This initial probationary period is six months, but it may be extended up to six additional months for valid reasons, such as completing specific training, attaining a specific skill level, or acquiring necessary credentials. An original probation period of up to 12 months may be established when specific training or certification requirements as documented in the position description cannot be completed within six months.
An extension of the probationary period requires prior approval by the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources. A better than "Unsatisfactory" rating qualifies an employee on an original appointment for permanent status, unless the probationary period has been extended. An employee who receives an "Unsatisfactory" rating will not be granted permanent status.
The department is responsible for notifying its supervisors approximately one month before probationary reviews are due. Completed probationary reviews are due in the Division of Human Resources prior to the last day of the review period.
Promotional employees are subject to a probationary period of not less than three months nor more than six months. However, a probationary period of up to 12 months may be established by the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources when specific training or certification requirements cannot be completed within six months. A promotional probationary period cannot be extended.
A probationary period and review is not required for a reclassification. However, the supervisor has the option to designate a probationary period and review of not less than three months nor more than six months for a reclassification. Reclassification is a change in an existing position from one classification to another. When a position is reclassified, an employee may be granted permanent status or may be subject to a probationary period of not less than three months nor more than six months. A probationary period of up to 12 months may be established if approved by the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources when specific training or certification requirements as documented in the position description cannot be completed within six months.
Reinstatement occurs when an employee returns to state service within a year of separation. Reinstated employees are subject to a probationary period of not less than three months nor more than six months.
A probationary employee may transfer from one position in a classification to another position in the same classification or to another classification in the same pay grade; whether in the same agency or from another agency, the transfer has no effect on the employee's probationary period. However, the initial probationary period may be extended, with the approval of the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources, up to six additional months.
When a permanent employee transfers from one position in a classification to another position in the same classification or to another classification in the same pay grade, in the same agency or from another agency, the transfer has no effect on the employee's permanent status; the employee does not serve another probationary period.
Employees who transfer, demote or promote from a temporary position in the classified service or from any position in the unclassified service to a regular classified position shall serve a standard six month probation.
All police officers are required to attend and successfully complete a course at the Law Enforcement Training Center before receiving permanent status.
All classified employees in a supervisory position (i.e., those who evaluate other classified employees) are required to complete Introduction to Supervisory Training or its equivalent before receiving permanent status.
Annual reviews are required for each regular classified employee are due between October 1 and December 23.
A special review may be made at any time to gauge the level of performance or to improve that performance. When appropriate, a special review may be conducted to increase or decrease a rating. A special review will not change the annual review due date which will remain due between October 1 and December 23 each year.
If overall performance is rated "Unsatisfactory" at the end of any probation period, the employee shall not be granted permanent status.
The department may request that the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources dismiss a probationary employee on an original appointment for not meeting the work requirements or for other good cause, such as conduct, at any time. In addition to completing the Performance Management Process Form (pdf), the supervisor shall notify the employee in writing, on or before the date of dismissal of a) the reason for the dismissal and b) the effective date. The notice shall give the employee the opportunity to respond in writing or to appear before the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources or his/her representative. (For initial probationary employees, the department head is designated as the Assistant Vice President's representative.) A copy of the dismissal notice and the completed Performance Management Process Form shall immediately be sent to the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources. The opportunity given the employee to appear or to respond in writing shall not be construed as a limitation on the authority of the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources to dismiss the probationary employee.
When a permanent classified employee's work performance deteriorates or does not meet the key requirements of the job, the supervisor will coach the employee with the stated objective of improving the employee's future performance. The steps below are to be followed to encourage improved performance:
Confer privately with the employee. Use the performance criteria listed on the Employee Peformance Review to guide the discussion. Communicate what level of performance is expected and document the recommendation to enchance employee performance.
Ask if mitigating circumstances may have affected work performance. Involve the employee in developing solutions, setting priorities, and establishing a timeline for improvement.
Within one week, provide the employee written recommendations to enhance employee performance that reflect the areas needing improvement. Include the goals, steps for improvement, and timelines. The recommendation must also state that without such improvement disciplinary action (suspension, demotion, or dismissal) may ultimately be recommended. The recommendation must be reviewed and approved by the department head prior to delivery to the employee.
If, after a reasonable period of time following the feedback session (normally 30 to 45 days), the work performance remains "Unsatisfactory," a "special" performance review shall be prepared. The supervisor will confer with the staff in Employee Relations and Training before discussing the "Unsatisfactory" rating with the employee. (Note: The employee's signature acknowledges receipt of the review and the rating; it does not imply agreement. ) Recommendations may be extended and/or revised for the upcoming rating period.
A minimum of 30 calendar days must elapse before the next "special" performance review may be conducted. If the performance has improved, a rating other than "Below Expectations" will be reported; if performance has not improved, an "Unsatisfactory" rating will be given.
If the employee has received two "Unsatisfactory" performance ratings in the 180 calendar days immediately preceding the effective date of the proposed action, the department head may recommend suspension, demotion, or dismissal of a regular employee for deficiencies in work performance. The second "Unsatisfactory" performance review will be forwarded to the Assistant Vice President, Division of Human Resources with the department's written recommendation.
The following deficiencies in work performance may lead to a "Below Expectations" performance rating and subsequent suspension, demotion, or dismissal (K.S.A. 75-2949e):
Employees who receive an unsatisfactory rating on either of the essential requirements set out on the form (dependability or K-State values) must receive an overall performance rating of "Unsatisfactory."
Personal conduct detrimental to state service may also result in suspension, demotion, or dismissal. The grounds for such actions are discussed in PPM Chapter 4020, Positive Discipline of Classified Employees.
A probationary employee on an original appointment (i.e., a new hire) cannot appeal a review rating. However, an employee serving a probation as a result of a promotion, (including promotion from another state agency), a reclassification, or a reinstatement shall have the same appeal rights as an employee with permanent status if the employee had permanent status in the prior position.
A permanent classified employee may, within 7 calendar days after having the opportunity to sign the Performance Management Process Form, appeal an overall rating other than "Consistently Exceeds Expectations." That appeal should be submitted in writing to Employee Relations and Training, who will mediate the issue if both the employee and the rater are willing.
If mediation is refused or if it is unsuccessful, the appeal will be referred to the KSU Classified Peer Review Committee (PRC). That Committee is appointed by the Vice President for Administration and Finance to hear civil service employee appeals. The Committee will consider evidence offered by the employee and the manager (supervisor), as well as any evidence the committee has requested. After deliberating, the PRC will assign a rating within 10 calendar days of the hearing date. The rating is final and not subject to further appeal.
Please refer to PPM Chapter 4030, Classified Employee Peer Review Committee Hearing Process, for further information about the appeal process.
Complete the form in black ink.
Complete the identification information (i.e., Employee Name, Person Completing Review, Employee ID, Agency Name, Class Title, Position Number, Timeframe being Evaluated and Review Type) at the beginning of the review period.
The Date of this Review and the Overall Performance Rating is identified by the supervisor at the end of the review period.
Identify S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-Based) objectives for the employee based on the supervisor/employee performance planning discussion. S.M.A.R.T. objectives define "WHAT" job responsibilities (goals) that need to be achieved throughout the review period using skills and knowledge.
Write a performance objective so that both parties understand its meaning and will know whether progress has been made or whether objective has been reached. In setting the objectives, be as specific as possible using quantitative (e.g., numbers, data, quotas, dates) and/or qualitative measures. The number of objectives should be based on the outcomes of the performance planning discussion; objectives may be added and/or modified as necessary throughout the review period.
A measurement scale and target should be established for each objective. Indicate how progress against the objectives will be observed or measured (tracked).
At the end of the review period, indicate employee's overall performance rating against each objective (i.e., Exceptional, Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory). Document how expectations were or were not met. Performance rating definitions are found in the .080 Overall Rating section.
Competencies describe, very specifically, the skills, behaviors, and personal characteristics the employee is expected to exhibit in accomplishing job responsibilities.
Considering the employee's overall strengths and weaknesses, list the critical competencies on page 2 of the form. The critical competencies may be core competencies or other competencies that direct the employee's focus. Suggest project or on-the-job activities the employee can engage in to help develop this competency.
Core Competencies: Performance Management Process Form pages 4-6
Leadership Competencies: Performance Management Process Form page 7
During the review period, performance coaching will provide the employee and the supervisor with an opportunity to discuss progress against objectives, review demonstration of competencies and determine if any objectives should be modified before the final review at the end of the performance management cycle.
Document progress against the Objectives and Competencies as defined in the Performance Planning process. Be as specific as possible about the employee's actual performance to date, documenting specific observable results wherever possible, and add qualitative information or feedback whenever helpful. Any valid updates to employee's objectives, which are based on changes in the unit or department needs, may also be documented in this section.
Dependability and K-State Values are essential requirements - basic behaviors that are critical to K-State operations.
Dependability: Recognizes responsibilities to K-State and applies effective work habits and attitudes to meet work requirements. Accomplishes tasks by showing concern for all aspects of the job and manages workload or completes tasks in a timely manner.
K-State Values: Individuals adhering to K-State values align their actions with high standards of conduct, accept responsibility for behavior and exhibit personal integrity at all times. Acts as a role model for other employees and does the right thing. Individual does not waste resources (i.e., time, material). Refer to the K-State Principles of Community for further guidance.
An unsatisfactory rating in dependability or K-State values will result in an overall performance rating of "Unsatisfactory."
Considering the level the employee typically or consistently operates at, check the box which best describes his/her behavior for the competency.
Job Responsibilities, Communication, Customer Service, Initiative and/or Teamwork are the core competencies critical to the success for all K-State employees.
Performance Management and/or Leadership are the competencies which have been identified as critical to a supervisor or manager's success within the State of Kansas environment.
Considering the level the employee typically or consistently operates at, check the box which best describes his/her behavior for the competency at the end of the review period. Also, describe behavioral examples for each competency.
Based upon ratings in the previous sections, identify the employee's major strengths in this job, and areas for improvement. In addition, include any additional accomplishments. Comments will help focus year end performance review discussion and help prioritize relevant objectives and development priorities for the coming year.
At the end of the review period, assign a rating to each of the objectives, rate essential requirements and core competencies and provide overall employee performance comments. The objectives ratings and other documentation on the form will substantiate the overall rating.
Authority for deciding the overall rating ultimately rests with the supervisor. The employee's signature does not necessarily signify agreement.
Indicate which level most appropriately describes the overall performance level of the individual. Add any comments to clarify the Overall Rating (may include unique circumstances, relevant career objectives, or other considerations).
An overall rating of Exceptional, Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory is assigned upon completion of any review type. The rating shall be substantiated by overall objectives, competencies, essential requirements, accomplishments and other documentation on the Performance Management Process Form (pdf).
Exceptional: Employee is making outstanding contributions on a continual basis. Employee's achievements are clearly distinguishable from solid performers, and are highly valued by others. Employee consistently performs at a high level of competency.
Exceeds Expectations: Employee is making significant contributions and often exceeds objectives and expectations. Employee demonstrates a high level of competency.
Meets Expectations: Employee is making meaningful and valuable contributions. Employee has shown consistent and continual performance throughout the review period.
Needs improvement: Employee is inconsistent in performance. Employee sometimes meets expectations and requirements. Continual improvement is required to fully meet expectations.
Unsatisfactory: Employee is not making the contributions expected of an employee in this role. Employee may not be appropriately placed in the job. Immediate improvement is required
A new employee who receives an "Unsatisfactory" rating prior to the end of his or her probationary period will not be granted permanent status. If an employee is serving an initial probationary period, permanent status will not be granted and the employee will be dismissed.
Individual departments are responsible for tracking due dates of performance reviews and for ensuring their timely completion through the utilization of a standard report from the Human Resource Information System (HRIS).
The Performance Management Process Form (pdf) must be submitted through the department personnel specialist to the Division of Human Resources. The supervisor and the employee should each retain a copy of the review form. (Note: No written comments or attachments may be submitted as part of a review if they have not been shared with the employee.)
The Division of Human Resources reviews the document for completeness and then enters the overall performance rating into the Human Resource Information System. The review becomes part of the employee's official personnel file. Because of K-State's traditional reduced holiday schedule, all annual reviews are due in the Division of Human Resources by December 23 each year; tardy submissions are to be avoided.
Questions regarding the Employee Performance Review System should be directed to the Division of Human Resources at (785) 532-6277.
