Board discusses changes to paid parental leave policy to comply with state law effective Oct. 1

Policy staff reviewed a draft revision of the paid parental leave policy to align the district with state statutory changes that take effect Oct. 1. The proposed edits add stillbirth as a qualifying event, raise non‑birthing parent leave from two to four weeks, and expand eligibility to classified staff who earn annual leave. Staff also described the required order for using leave buckets when paid parental leave runs concurrently with FMLA.

"This change in law will now allow them 4 weeks of paid, leave," the policy presenter said about the non‑birthing parent change. Trustees asked for clarification on the distinction between annual leave and sick leave in the draft language and discussed timing for first and second readings so the policy is in place before the statutory effective date. The presenter said the board can proceed with first reading and prepare for second reading ahead of the Oct. 1 compliance deadline.