NJ School Boards Association rep gives Collingswood board ethics refresher

Lori Bandlow, field service representative for the New Jersey School Boards Association, led a board training on the School Ethics Act during the Collingswood Board of Education meeting. Bandlow said the act sets conduct standards for school officials and administrators, explained the commission that issues advisory opinions, and urged board members to complete annual mandatory training and required financial-disclosure statements.

Bandlow walked the board through examples of SEC advisory opinions, including scenarios where a board member’s employment ties or public actions led to censure or suspension. She emphasized the chain of command: board members should avoid intervening in staff-level matters and should recuse themselves from discussions and votes when personal interests could impair impartiality.

On recusal versus abstention, Bandlow told the board to consult the board solicitor and register recusal during the vote if counsel advises it. She also outlined acceptable volunteer roles for board members (chaperoning, passive classroom help) and prohibited roles (coaching, directing productions) to avoid conflicts.

Bandlow cautioned about social media: a disclaimer does not automatically shield a board member from scrutiny if the content creates a perceived official capacity or nexus to board duties. She recommended using recommended language and checking with legal counsel when in doubt.

The presentation concluded with a question-and-answer period on ‘nexus’ (whether social-media content connects to official duties) and conflict scenarios in small districts. The board thanked Bandlow and returned to the regular agenda.