(a)
The governing board of a school district may grant reimbursement of the costs, including tuition fees, to a permanent classified employee who satisfactorily completes approved training to improve his or her job knowledge, ability, or skill. Programs eligible for that reimbursement shall include courses of study at approved academic institutions, seminars and training institutes conducted by recognized professional associations, and conferences, meetings and other training programs that are designed to upgrade the classified service and to encourage retraining of employees who may otherwise be subject to layoff as the result of technological changes. Eligibility for reimbursement shall be in accordance with rules established by the personnel commission in those districts that have adopted a merit system. This section does not apply to an employee who is receiving training and is eligible for reimbursement by another governmental agency, organization, or association.
(b)
The governing board of a school district may permit a permanent classified employee to attend a minimum of one schoolday each year, during working hours, for job-related in-service training, with pay.