View the BPS Leave of Absence Employee Handbook for complete information on leave of absence policies and procedures.

1. How do I request a short-term sick leave (1-5 days)?

For absences ranging between 1-5 days, you should request time off in Employee Self Service (ess.boston.gov). Your request will be routed to your direct supervisor.

2. How do I request a long-term leave of absence (6 or more days)?

STEP 1: Log into the Leave of Absence Online Portal and sign in using your BPS email address.

• Click on the "Forms” menu (top left corner)
• Click on the “Leave Request” link from the drop-down menu

STEP 2: Fill in the blank fields, electronically sign the form, and click "Submit Application”.

MEDICAL LEAVE: If you are requesting medical leave, your doctor must submit the appropriate medical form (below) within 15 days of the request for leave, to ohrleaves@bostonpublicschools.org OR (fax) 617-635-7957. 

The certification by the healthcare provider on all FMLA forms must include:

• Probable duration of condition; 
• Beginning and ending dates for period of incapacity; and
• Reason for leave.

FORM #1: FMLA Form WH-380-E: Employee's Serious Health Condition; or 

FORM #2: FMLA Form WH-380-F: Family Member's Serious Health Condition 

Incomplete documentation will cause delays in processing time!

3. How do I return from a long-term leave of absence (6 or more days)?

If you are on a medical leave of absence, you must submit a signed medical clearance letter from your treating physician to the Office of Human Resources, at least two (2) days before your return from leave of absence. 

DO NOT RETURN TO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFYING THE OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES EMPLOYEE SERVICES TEAM.

4. What if I wish to seek reasonable accommodations when returning from my leave?

The Boston Public Schools makes reasonable accommodations in compliance with the ADA and M.G.L. c. 151B for employees with handicaps or disabilities, as outlined in Superintendent's Circular EQT-1. If you wish to seek reasonable accommodations under the law, please contact Grace Jung in the Office of Equity at 617-635-8305 or gjung@bostonpublicschools.org to engage in the interactive dialogue, NO LATER THAN TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE EXPIRATION OF YOUR LEAVE.

If you have any questions about the steps to take a leave of absence and/or return from leave of absence, please call OHR Employee Services at 617-635-9255 or email ohrleaves@bostonpublicschools.org. All documentation can be faxed to 617-635-7957.