The School Board discourages the presentation of gifts to professional staff members by students and their parents because it could embarrass students with limited means and gives the appearance of currying favor.

It is the policy of the Board that no professional staff member should expect or accept gifts for carrying out the terms of his/her teaching contract.

The Board does recognize, though, that gift-giving to professional staff members at Christmas fits the spirit of the season and gift-giving at the close of an academic year is a part of tradition. At these times, gifts other than money may be accepted; however, teachers should not open gift(s) in class or comment on item(s) in front of students.

Upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, the Board shall consider, as appropriate, the presentation of token gifts to retiring members of the staff who have rendered service for a period of time.

Professional staff members shall not accept any form of compensation from vendors that might influence their recommendations on the eventual purchase of equipment, supplies, or services. Furthermore, professional staff members shall not accept any compensation from a vendor after a decision has been made to purchase equipment, supplies, or services from said vendor. In addition, professional staff members who recommend purchases shall not enter into a contractual arrangement with a vendor seeking to do business with the Corporation or a vendor with whom the Corporation is doing business, whereby an individual professional staff member receives compensation in any form for services rendered.

Adopted 12/10/01