School's back in session! You may have already received time-off requests for parents to attend school-related activities. Or maybe your employee informed you he was entitled to take leave for after-school pick-up every day (no, this is not really a thing).
While the employee who thought there was mandated leave for school pick-ups was mistaken, many states and localities have enacted specific school-related leave laws for extracurricular activities, school conferences, etc. In other jurisdictions, it falls under the paid sick leave law. When you get a request, be sure you understand what you are required to provide an employee – and what your employee is required to provide you. How much advanced notice are you entitled to? Can you request documentation?
Keep in mind, even if a state/locality does not require school-related leave, all employers should consider the following best practices when managing employees with school-aged children:
- Educate all managers on the company's work-life policies and ensure they are supportive of employees who take advantage of available programs.
- Consider allowing employees to work flexible schedules, helping them balance work and parental responsibilities.
- Consider providing reasonable leave to allow employees to attend school-related activities.
- Do not retaliate against employees who take advantage of available programs.
Not sure about your jurisdiction? Reach out to your FrankAdvice HR Consultant.