MMSD board approves paid parental and foster-care leave policy

The Madison Metropolitan School District Board of Education voted Tuesday to adopt a new parental and foster-care leave policy, making paid leave available to MMSD employees effective immediately. Board members described the change as a step to support working parents, attract staff and reduce turnover.

Supporters framed the policy as the product of extensive committee work and collaboration. Board member Muldrow said the policy had been reviewed by the handbook committee and employee association partners and called the policy "standard, around the world," noting MMSD could be a model for Wisconsin. Dr. Gothard confirmed the policy had been discussed with handbook committees and partners and that red lines from employee associations informed the final language.

Speakers at the meeting recounted personal experiences to underscore the policy's importance. Board member Saravo described returning to work after a 27-week premature birth and 81 days in the NICU, saying limited leave had made that period especially difficult. Public commenters earlier in the meeting, including custodial staff and AFSCME representatives, also urged the board to enact paid leave.

Board members debated process questions about handbook referral and timing but ultimately expressed broad support. The motion to add the parental and foster-care leave policy passed on a recorded vote (advisory student vote recorded as "Aye").

The policy will be implemented by district administration; board members said additional handbook-level clarifications and related committee work would continue where needed. No fiscal details or phased implementation timeline were specified in the motion recorded at the meeting.

The board's action follows months of public comment and internal review; staff and parent advocates said the policy change addresses long-standing inequities in leave access across MMSD bargaining units.