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Revised (Dec 15 2009)
Privacy
The board is governed by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, which covers privacy and access to information and is further defined by the School Act and its regulations. School district policy and the board’s procedural bylaws should outline processes for handling confidential items. Usually the confidentiality of a matter determines whether it appears on the public or in-camera meeting agenda. Trustees and staff are protected in regard to liability only to the extent that they adhere to due process and act within their defined roles.
Generally, only the board chair, superintendent or designated trustee or official can issue statements or address requests for information. Timely statements reduce speculation and rumour. Such statements should be crafted by someone with experience. In a crisis or contentious situation, include only what can and needs to be said and clarify what action is being taken.
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Transparency
