Interesting - according to Michele, there's more flexibility, and it seems, different versions of the paperwork. My principal had to sign the form as a first step, and I know of other teachers whose sabbatical has been turned down by the principal, which means the school inspector won't sign the form, either. Furthermore, when I realized I had missed the deadline, I called Irgun Hamorim, Bank Habenleumi Harishon and the MOE and was told, "Too late - there's nothing to be done." I guess you have to know who to talk to - but it's not worth the risk.