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Board attorney gives condensed Code of Ethics briefing, warns about complaints and confidentiality
Summary
Board attorney Don Gard delivered a condensed presentation of the district's Code of Ethics, warning that the School Ethics Commission can issue reprimands up to removal, and stressing limits on board members' administrative actions, confidentiality and the chain of command.
Don Gard, the board attorney, presented a condensed "Reader's Digest" version of the Wayne Township Public School District Code of Ethics at the Jan. 2 reorganization meeting, emphasizing legal responsibilities, confidentiality obligations and procedures for referring complaints.
Gard highlighted that the School Ethics Commission in Trenton can investigate complaints against board members and impose sanctions including reprimand, censure, suspension or removal. He reviewed several subsections: upholding state laws and board rules; making decisions in the educational welfare of children without discrimination; confining board action to policymaking rather than administration; avoiding private promises that compromise the board; refusing to surrender independent judgment to special interests; maintaining confidentiality for executive-session matters; and appointing personnel only after consideration of superintendent recommendations.
He illustrated key points with case examples, including instances where board members were censured for bypassing the superintendent or sharing confidential information with family members. Gard also cautioned board members about social-media posts and letters to editors that could create the impression they were speaking for the board.
Gard said the presentation was introductory and that a more in-depth retreat on the code of ethics will be scheduled in January for members who want additional detail.
