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Board Member Code of Ethics

 

The members of the Springfield Board of Education recognize that they hold authority not as individuals but as members of the Board.  In order to make a clear public statement of its philosophy of service to the pupils of the district, the board adopts this Code of Ethics based upon those of the New Jersey School Boards Association.
 

  1. I will uphold and enforce all laws, state Board rules and regulations, and court orders pertaining to schools. Desired changes should be brought about only through legal and ethical procedures.
     
  2. I will make decisions in terms of the educational welfare of children and will seek to develop and maintain public schools which meet the individual needs of all children regardless of their ability, race, creed, sex or social standing.

  3. I will confine my board action to policymaking, planning and appraisal and I will help to frame policies and plans only after the Board has consulted those who will be affected by them.
     
  4. I will behave toward my fellow Board members with the respect due their office demonstrating courtesy, decorum and fair play at all public meetings and in all public statements.
     
  5. I will refrain from inappropriate conduct in public meetings and in making public statements, refraining from any disparagement of my fellow Board members or others on a personal, social, racial or religious basis.
     
  6. I will carry out my responsibility, not to administer the schools, but, together with my fellow Board members, to see that they are well run.
     
  7. I will recognize that authority rests with the Board of Education and will make no personal promises nor take any private action which may compromise the board.

  8. I will refuse to surrender my independent judgment to special interest or partisan political groups or to use the schools for personal gain or for the gain of friends.
     
  9. I will hold confidential all matters pertaining to the schools which, if disclosed, would needlessly injure individuals or the schools. But in all other matters, I will provide accurate information and, in concert with my fellow board members, interpret to the staff the aspirations of the community for its schools.
     
  10. I will vote to appoint the best qualified personnel available after consideration of the recommendation of the Chief School Administrator.
     
  11. I will support and protect school personnel in proper performance of their duties.

  12. I will refer all complaints to the Chief School Administrator and will act on such complaints at public meetings only after failure of an administrative solution.