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(KRON) — The Pleasanton Unified School District will pay a $60,000 settlement after allegations that it illegally fired a custodian when she asked to receive accommodations at work during her pregnancy, the California Civil Rights Department announced Wednesday.
The custodian informed her supervisor that she was pregnant and provided a doctor’s note that listed her accommodation needs, according to the complaint filed in 2025. The medical accommodations included reduced standing and walking, avoiding bending at the waist or twisting her spine, and lifting objects no more than 20 pounds.
“The worker alleged that after she shared the specific accommodation needs, her supervisor immediately notified her that they did not have any work for her until after her baby was born,” the California Civil Rights Department wrote. “A human resources staff member later confirmed that she had been terminated because the school district could not accommodate her — even though a male custodian was allegedly put on light duty after a non-pregnancy related disability.”
As part of the settlement, in which the school district does not admit to any wrongdoing, the custodian will receive $39,996.78 in compensation for alleged non-economic damages. Another $20,003.22 will be paid for the worker’s attorney fees and costs.
The settlement will also have the Pleasanton Unified School District conduct a review of its antidiscrimination and pregnancy disability leave policies and provide training to the supervisor and human resources staff on civil rights laws.
“There’s no excuse for firing someone because of their pregnancy. California law is clear that pregnant workers have the right to ask for accommodations and take time off. Employers have a responsibility to all of us to ensure the civil rights of their workers are protected,” said Kevin Kish, director of the California Civil Rights Department. “If they don’t, our department is always prepared to take action.”
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