signing of a promissory note and laid-off in Ohio

[may5two]

I worked for a school district in Ohio and was laid-off. Prior to being laid-off I participated in a program that allowed me to get my masters degree. I had to sign a promissory note stating that after completing the program I would work for the district for a minimum of three years in exchange for them paying for my masters degree. A year into the program they laid me off. I returned as a sub in the same district because they agreed to finish paying for my degree. Throughout the year uncertainity followed and I was unsure if I would be recalled or not. Several pieces of information about being recalled as a certificated teacher was shared but no guarantees. I completed the program on August 8th, still uncertain about being called back, so I decided to relocate and get a job elsewhere. Two days before school started (around August 24th) I was placed in a position in the district but without a contract. Unfortunately, I had already relocated before I was recalled. Now I am being asked to pay the money back for my masters degree. The promissory note stated that if I resign from my position before the three years I would have to pay the money back but I was laid off. Can they make me pay?

[cbg]

You will have to show the note and any related documents to a local attorney. The devil is in the details and only someone who has read the documentation in its entirety can say how enforceable it is.