Why Should Boards Adopt a Code of Ethics or Standards of Practice?
Trusteeship brings with it certain responsibilities and expectations. Some of these are related to what is ethical and appropriate behavior for public officials. The public expects its leaders and representatives to uphold high standards in the performance of their duties. Codes of ethics (or “standards of practice” as they are sometimes called) define specific expectations for board members. It is important for boards to clarify for themselves what behavior is appropriate. It is not enough to assume that because something is legal, it is ethical, or that everyone knows how they are supposed to act as board members the minute they are elected or appointed to the position. At least two regional accrediting commissions require boards of trustees to have a code of ethics: the Western Association’s Accrediting Commission for Junior and Community Colleges, and the Northwest Association. During the re-accreditation process, institutions in those regions are evaluated on whether or not the bo
