Thanks so much for the information. I am still under last years contract for about two more weeks. They were ready to hand me my new contract once I sign the handbook acknowledgement. Should I request to read and sign it just after signing my contract? Not sure if they will go for it. Is it a problem to sign it in-between two contracts? I do not think they are trying to get rid of me but I do not want to sign away any rights. I have not seen the new contract wording to see if they have changed it as well.

Again - Thanks for your help!

Honestly, I would ask the school whether they intend to have you as an at-will employee or a contractor (in which case, they would simply be giving you the handbook so that you have a copy of all the policies). I think in situations such as this, the best approach is for everyone to be upfront with their expectations so that everyone knows what is happening.

Best of luck. Come back and comment and let us know how it turns out!