An employer-paid leave of absence authorized by the Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/24-6.1. A member on sabbatical leave may be granted service credit as though he or she had been teaching during the time of the leave. The earnings that are reported are based on the salary rate last reported to TRS prior to the leave. This type of leave is generally for resident study, research, travel, or another purpose designed to improve the school system.