Attorney leads board ethics training on disclosure, gifts and executive-session risks

Andrea White of White and Story presented a board ethics training to Richland 02 trustees on March 24, 2026, reviewing the South Carolina Ethics Code (Title 8), disclosure requirements for gifts, recusal obligations and the potential consequences of using official position for personal gain.

White advised trustees to disclose gifts of more than a nominal value (the ethics opinions and practice commonly use a $25 threshold as guidance) and to err on the side of disclosure: "If in doubt, disclose it," she said. She explained that the statement of economic interest is the vehicle for such disclosure and that failure to disclose or improper participation in procurement can trigger complaints to the South Carolina Ethics Commission, fines, possible criminal charges in severe cases and reputational and insurance consequences for the district.

The attorney discussed executive-session confidentiality, explaining there is no absolute statute shielding every executive-session discussion from disclosure but noting that improper public statements about matters discussed in executive session can harm the district's legal position in litigation and may result in lost insurance coverage or other consequences.

Trustees asked practical questions about thresholds for reporting gifts, whether routine board-member town halls are appropriate, and how to handle campaign donations and meetings with vendors. White emphasized the appearance of impropriety is significant and urged trustees to use good judgment, disclose when unsure and refer operational complaints to the superintendent.

The training concluded with trustees encouraged to consult the South Carolina Ethics Commission opinions and the district's board policies governing conduct, conflicts of interest and board–superintendent relations.