2501

Administration

Superintendent Communications with Board

In order for the Board of Education to carry out its many responsibilities as defined by policy, statute, and collective bargaining agreements of the District, it is imperative that the members be kept informed of a wide variety of matters associated with District operations.

In addition to the reports generally described in the Policy (#2500), the Board seeks to be kept apprised of any matters involving certified and non-certified staff that are of concern and have the potential to become sources of embarrassment to the Board and to the District. Reference here is made to those situations wherein a formal report must be filed with local law enforcement, the Commissioner of Education, the Department of Children and Families, and/or any other entity having responsibility for monitoring and addressing instances of criminal acts, neglect, harassment, or other questionable actions.

The Board recognizes that there may be reasons to shield a staff member's identity from the Board, and to preserve the confidentiality of the events of concern. With this in mind, the Board, nevertheless, seeks to be given as much information as is legally and practically possible so that it can be prepared should there be circumstances that it will have to address.

The Board also recognizes that there may be situations where it should not be given any information whatsoever in the event that the Board may, at some future date, have to serve in a disciplinary capacity or in some other fashion render a determination regarding the situation and the staff member. It will be the Superintendent's responsibility to consult with Board/District counsel to make the soundest decision possible in the event that such a situation occurs.

As a matter of practice and relevant statute, and in conjunction with the Board's budget development responsibilities, the Board seeks to be kept informed of such matters as staffing levels, general performance assessments, possible actions regarding employment, and other personnel information that can be helpful in setting staffing levels across the District. It is understood that most of the details related to these matters are confidential and the Board seeks only general explanations without specific identities attached.

(cf. 2131 - Superintendent of Schools)

Legal Reference:  Connecticut General Statutes

10-157 Superintendents.  Relationship to local or regional board of education; written contract of employment, evaluation of superintendent by board of education.

Policy adopted: