School trustee censured due to confidentiality issue

Times Reporter

 

Golden Hills School Division held an organizational board meeting on Oct. 26, where the new trustees were sworn in and positions were elected. Newcomer David Price won by acclamation for ward 2 and was elected as Board Chair. 

“This is a new experience for me, although my father was a trustee a long time ago,” said Price.   

Shortly after being sworn in, it was brought to the attention of all the trustees that there was an issue which needed to be discussed in camera. 

“The discussion resulted in the censure of Mr. McKay for having some confidential information released. It was his responsibility and it was a breach from his perspective,” said Price.  

Breaching confidentiality is a serious matter, and the board took it seriously and took appropriate action.

McKay is still a trustee and all of his individual responsibilities are the same as they were before, but when it comes to representing the board in any capacity he is censured for a year. 

He is excluded from serving on the Committee of the Board, or representing the Board to external organizations. 

McKay is one of the returning trustees from the last term. 

On Oct. 21, all of the trustees took part in a full day orientation to trusteeship, which was facilitated by J. Gibbons, Senior Education Advisor of the Alberta School Boards Association, ASBA. Trustees also attended a regional orientation sponsored by the ASBA on Oct. 27. 

Price said he has been getting to know his fellow trustees and is confident everyone is passionate about doing the best they can for all of the kids who are a part of the Golden Hills School Division.  

Public meetings will still be held on the second and third Tuesday of each month. Dates may change and it is recommended that people check the website or contact the division to confirm meeting dates and times.