Maternity Leave

A staff member is entitled to twelve weeks of maternity leave, as outlined in the Family Medical and Leave Act. Calvin College designates up to six weeks of FMLA maternity leave as paid medical leave (eight weeks are available for C-section deliveries). In order to receive compensation, staff members must provide a physician’s statement regarding the probable duration and necessity of the leave. This statement must be submitted at least 30 days prior to due date. The Family Medical Leave Act Form is available online.

If a staff member plans to return to work in an eligible reduced load position, she will receive paid maternity leave based on the new FTE when she returns to work. If the staff member reverts to her original FTE within six months of returning to work, she will receive compensation based on her FTE prior to maternity leave.

If a staff member receives paid maternity leave based on her original FTE but, upon return, decides to work in a reduced load position, a prorated portion of the maternity leave must be repaid to the college. No payment is necessary if she returns to her original FTE within six months of her return.

If a staff member receives paid maternity leave and chooses not to return to work or, upon return, assumes a non-eligible position within six months, the maternity leave must be repaid to the college. In the case of extenuating circumstances that might prevent the staff member from returning to work for the full six months, she should contact her supervisor and the Human Resources office to discuss possible accommodations.

Please refer to the Benefits Eligibility Chart to see if you are eligible for this benefit.