What is a "retention standard"?
A retention standard describes the level of performance necessary to be retained in a job (i.e., the standard written for performance one level above the Unacceptable level). In appraisal programs where a Minimally Successful or equivalent level exists for appraising elements, the retention standard is the Minimally Successful or equivalent standard. In appraisal programs that do not have a Minimally Successful or equivalent level available, the retention standard is the Fully Successful standard.
The Merit Systems Protection Board and the courts have held that an agency
- must ensure that retention standards:
- are reasonably attainable
- are not impermissibly absolute (allow for no error)
- inform the employee of the level of performance needed to retain his or her job
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