SUMMARY:  LC 33 6486 LC 33 6552S

Amends code sections related to local boards of education

PROVISIONS: 

Amends 20-2-49, standards for local boards of education:

• Expands the focus of school board members on the singular objective of ensuring each student receives a quality education to "enabling the student to fulfill his or her God-given potential and equipping him or her for full citizenship in our constitutional republic"
• Motivation to serve on local board is expanded to include maintaining accreditation and the "effective representation of parents' and other constituents' interests in the operation of the school system"
• Clarifies that service on the local board is important citizen service and representation 
• Deletes the provision about local board members being treated differently from other elected officials
• Requires the local board to create a code of conduct and conflict of interest by which each member should abide provided that it may not interfere with a member's right to free speech
• Deletes the language regarding the essential measure of success of a local board to be maintaining accreditation 

Amends 20-2-72, code of ethics for local boards:

• Model code of ethics provided by the State Board can not interfere with a member's right to free speech 

EFFECTIVE DATE:  Upon approval by the General Assembly and Governor.