Board Policies

As an elected member of the Board of Trustees,

1. I will devote time, thought and study to the duties and responsibilities of trusteeship so that I may render effective and credible service.

2. I will promote transparent, ethical governance practices, ensuring all decisions are made with equity, accountability and fairness in mind.

3. I will abide by the Board’s Code of Conduct and understand that any violation of ethical standards may result in formal complaint procedures, hearings and potential sanctions as outlined by Board policy.

4. I will engage in ongoing professional development and learning opportunities to strengthen my effectiveness as a Trustee, particularly in areas of governance, ethics and leadership.

5. I will recognize that the expenditure of school funds is a public trust and I will support policies and practices which ensure that all such funds are expended efficiently, economically and in the best interest of the students and electors of the Division.

6. I will endeavour to work with my fellow Trustees in a spirit of harmony and cooperation in spite of differences of opinion that may arise during vigorous debate. I will avoid rancour and bitterness; observe proper decorum and behaviour; encourage full and open discussions in all matters with my fellow members of the Board.

7. I will act as a role model for students, staff and the community, promoting ethical behaviour and the highest standards of integrity in all my interactions.

8. I will address conflicts and differences of opinion with my fellow Trustees respectfully and constructively, both in Board meetings and outside of formal settings.

9. I will base my personal decision upon all available facts in each situation, voting my honest conviction in every case.

10. I will do everything possible to maintain the integrity, confidence and dignity of the office of the school Trustee and I will resist every temptation and outside pressure to misuse my position as a trustee to benefit either myself or any other individual or agency.

11. I will respect the confidentiality of information, discussions and decisions made in closed meetings or concerning sensitive matters, in accordance with Board policies and legal requirements.

12. I will support a culture where concerns about ethical conduct can be raised without fear of retaliation and will not engage in or condone any retaliatory behaviour toward those who raise such concerns in good faith.

13. I will avoid any conflicts of interest and make decisions that are in the best interest of the Division as a whole, ensuring that my fiduciary responsibilities are always fulfilled with integrity and impartiality.

14. I will not use my position as Trustee to influence Board decisions for personal, family or external interests and will avoid any appearance of favouritism or partiality.

15. I will remember at all times that as an individual, I have no legal authority outside the meetings of the Board, unless the Board has so delegated. My relationships with the school staff, the local citizenry and the media will be conducted on the basis of this fact.

16. I will be mindful of my conduct and communications, including on social media, understanding that my actions reflect on the Board as a whole. I will ensure that all public communication is respectful and in line with the Board’s policies and values.

17. I will always bear in mind that the primary function of the Board is to establish the policies by which the schools are to be administered and that the daily administration of the educational program and conduct of school business shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent and his/her staff; therefore, I will refer complaints and other communications to the Superintendent in accordance with policies and procedures approved by the Board.

18. I will maintain professional and respectful relationships with the Superintendent and all school staff, understanding the importance of supporting their roles without interfering in day-to-day operations.

19. I will earnestly attempt to promote goals based on the needs and aspirations of the community and do my best to support effective educational programs for the students.

20. I will promote and support policies and actions that reflect the values of equity, diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all students, staff and community members are treated with fairness and respect.