Chicago Public Schools staff presented proposed amendments on Sept. 10 to the district paid time‑off (PTO) policy to align with the City of Chicago’s new paid‑leave ordinance, alter sick‑leave carryover rules for nonunion employees, and extend the notice period for religious holidays.
Ben Felton, chief talent officer, said key changes include beginning sick‑time accrual on hire date for part‑time and hourly employees, availability within 30 days for use per the city ordinance, and new maximum carryover rules for nonunion employees. The amendment also raises the religious‑holiday notification window from seven to 14 days to provide principals and managers more time for coverage planning; the 14‑day rule is subject to collective‑bargaining agreements where applicable.
Why it matters: The changes affect employee benefits and equitable application of leave across district staff and were reviewed with legal, payroll and equity staff and posted for public comment from July 25 to Aug. 25.
Felton said the amendment was developed with stakeholders including the board office, equity, law, finance, payroll and the city’s Office of Labor Standards, and that only a few public comments were received during the posting period. The administration asked the board to authorize the amendment at a future meeting.
Ending: District officials said the amendment brings CPS into compliance with local labor law, clarifies religious holiday procedures and standardizes sick‑leave carryover for nonunion staff; board members will receive the proposed changes and may ask questions before any vote.