Week 5 Part 1

Week 5 Part 1

Code of Ethics for School Leaders

Standard 1.1 – The educator shall not intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly engage in deceptive practices regarding official policies of the school district, educational institution, educator preparation program, the Texas Education Agency, or the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) and its certification process.

Example:

High School athletic director was pawning school video equipment for his gambling habit.

Standard 1.2 – The educator shall not knowingly misappropriate, divert, or use monies, personnel, property, or equipment committed to his or her charge for personal gain or advantage.

Example:

Superintendent purchased furniture for his home using district funds.

Standard 1.3 – The educator shall not submit fraudulent requests for reimbursement, expenses, or pay.

Example:

Teacher was given a purchase order to purchase items from local store. The store gave the teacher a gift card for a small amount that was not used. Teacher used the gift card to purchase personal items.

Standard 2.3 – The educator shall adhere to written local school board policies and state and federal laws regarding the hiring, evaluation, and dismissal of personnel.

Example:

Principal hires a family friend for a teaching position, without interviewing other candidates.

Standard 2.6 – The educator shall not use coercive means or promise of special treatment in order to influence professional decisions or colleagues.

Example:

Principal tried to coerce the assistant principal to change a teacher’s PDAS evaluation to a lower rating. The principal was trying to terminate the teacher.

Short and Long Range Consequences

Standard 1.1

Short range – Athletic director was placed on paid leave and an investigation was ordered.

Long range – Athletic director admitted to committing the crime. He was terminated and his certificate was suspended for three years.

Standard 1.2

Short range – District and community lost faith in the superintendent. Superintendent was placed on leave.

Long range – Superintendent was terminated and later prosecuted. The superintendent served six years in prison.

Standard 1.3

Short range –Teacher was ordered to reimburse the money. Documentation was placed in teacher’s file.

Long range – Teacher can be terminated and prosecuted.

The superintendent must model ethics and integrity. It is important that all employees exhibit the same type of behavior. All employees must know the policies and procedures for the district. The reality is that everyone is going to make mistakes and sometimes exercise poor judgment. It is important that these areas are addressed.  The superintendent must communicate with district staff and stakeholders. When employees do not follow district policies, they must be held accountable. The superintendent must have the ability to apply laws, policies, and procedures. Trust is placed in the superintendent’s role to lead the district. The superintendent must maintain moral and consistent standards across the board.