Paternity leave for a Chicago Teacher

fancyluke

Hi all,

I'm a soon-to-be father working for Chicago Public Schools (CPS). I have tried getting a straight answer from HR and Sedgwick but keep getting different information. What options do I have for paternity leave in CPS?

Can I use up my sick days? Can I take STD or FMLA? How much paid time can I get? I'd love it if I could take a month off.

I'd really appreciate some guidance. 

mmemartinez

I'm not in CPS but public schools and you should be able to use FMLA just as a mother would, the exception being if you both work for CPS. FMLA can used for adoption or family care of any kind so CPS can't do much to prevent you from taking some leave. FMLA is 12 weeks aka 60 days. In the districts I've worked sick days go towards your pay when on FMLA.

kimberdubs

I'm in CPS too. A colleague of mine recently took a month off for his little one. Not sure if he used benefit days or FMLA, but it is possible! I hope you get your answers soon. Maybe reach out to your Union delegate? 

Edit: just realized how long ago you asked this, so my response may be irrelevant. Oops! Hope it worked out for you if you already found your answer!