NHSBA voices concerns over educator code of conduct amendment in New Hampshire

The New Hampshire House Education Policy and Administration Committee convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to educational legislation, raising concerns from the New Hampshire School Boards Association (NHSBA) regarding the implications for educators and school districts.

One of the primary issues highlighted was the removal of a specific definition from the bill, which NHSBA representatives argued could lead to confusion and potential violations of the educator code of conduct. They expressed particular concern over language that states it would be a violation to intentionally breach district internal reporting requirements. NHSBA representatives emphasized that such violations should be treated as employment matters rather than statutory violations, suggesting that the state should not impose penalties for local school board policy violations.

Additionally, the committee discussed the potential for punitive measures against educators due to "inaccurate reports," which could arise from innocent mistakes. NHSBA representatives cautioned that the language in the bill is overly broad and could unfairly penalize educators who fail to meet reporting timelines, especially in cases where unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, may hinder compliance.

The meeting also touched on the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in the education system, including parents, teachers, and local government. NHSBA representatives referenced a previous bill aimed at enhancing parental involvement in educational discussions, advocating for a more holistic approach to education quality.

In response to questions about statutory timelines included in the bill, NHSBA acknowledged the necessity of timelines to ensure timely communication and investigation processes. However, they stressed the need for a balanced approach to avoid undue pressure on educators and administrators.

The discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to refine educational policies in New Hampshire, with a focus on protecting educators while ensuring accountability within the school system. The committee's next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed amendments and their implications for the state's educational framework.