(a) Employee training opportunities.(1) Funding for employee training is provided by the Human Resources and Staff Services Division or the employee's division.(2) The employee's division also funds travel-related expenses for training participation.(b) Education assistance program. Upon the recommendation of the employee's division director and with approval of the executive director, the employee's respective division funds may be used to reimburse the employee for specific tuition-related expenses . To qualify for reimbursement, the employee must successfully complete the requested course at an accredited institution of higher education, and the course must be:(1) directly related to improving specific knowledge and skills pertinent to essential job functions of the current or prospective position;(2) needed for a special job assignment; or(3) required for a career ladder promotion.