Q. "What is a 'Ramp-Down, Ramp-Up Parental Leave Policy'?"
Answer:
The ramp-down part of the policy applies to the four-week period immediately prior to leave, scaling employee workload incrementally while maintaining their salary. The ramp-up component applies to the three-month period immediately upon return from parental leave with a similar slow increase in workload.
The benefits of this policy are:
More gradual adjustment to the demands of being a new parent
High levels of productivity, satisfaction and employee retention
Can run concurrently with FMLA and other state and local leave laws
Having a policy in place allows for a seamless and responsible transition while maintaining a high level of quality of ministry. We think you might see more of this policy in the future!