School board okays trustee 'guidelines'
By Joann Groff  joann@theacorn.com

JOANN GROFF/Acorn Newspapers PROMISES TO KEEP--Sporting Dr. Seuss hats, Conejo Valley Unified School District Superintendent Mario Contini, left, and board President Dolores Didio raise their right hands while reciting the "Dr. Seuss oath" to be a lifelong reader. The ceremony at the board's Feb. 27 meeting was held in honor of the birthday of the famous children's author.

Conejo Valley Unified School District board members have unanimously approved a newly drafted set of board protocols.

The guidelines, released last week, address acting as a team player and a role model, respecting democratic decision-making and placing the best interests of students over those of any other constituency.

The finished document was met with praise on the dais. Superintendent Mario Contini spearheaded the project.

"I'd like to compliment the superintendent for doing this," Stephens said. "These are the first guidelines we've ever had, and I think they will provide a great road map. Some of the issues we've had are represented here and I think will really help in the future."

Other rules include keeping confidential matters confidential, alerting schools before board member visits and participating in board development activities.

After several drafts of the protocols, hypotheticals were recently added to better understand the guidelines. For example, "I shall place the best interest of 'all' students over any geographical, idealogical or other constituency" was explained with the following hypothetical situation concerning a controversial textbook.

After promising he would vote against the book if elected, a board member hears expert testimony and changes his mind. Despite threats of a recall, the board member addresses the voters, apologizes that he cannot keep his promise and votes for the book. He has served the best interest of the students despite his allegiance to a constituent group.

"I think the protocols are really excellent," Phelps said. "And adding the hypotheticals was great and very helpful."

Stephens agreed.

"These are going to make us all better board members," Stephens said. "There's nothing wrong with that. We should all want to grow as board members and be more effective, to master our craft."

If protocols are violated, interventions may include private or public admonishment; a consultation with the board, its president or the superintendent; or a recommendation to participate in further training.

"Maybe we should have this laminated for quick reference up here on the dais," joked Phelps.

Contini and all board members must sign a promise-to-comply letter.

To request a copy of the board protocols, contact the superintendent's office at (805) 497-9511.