1.5 Code of Ethics
1.5 Code of Ethics
The Board of Kiamichi Technology Center does hereby adopt the State Board of Career and Technology Education’s Code of Ethics.
We believe that the following statements are the core components of the ethical foundation for the Oklahoma CareerTech System – a system that helps prepare Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education, and in life. To this end, we subscribe to the following statements as standards for the Technology Center Code of Ethics:
I (will):
- Focus on the success of students and clients as the fundamental value upon which all decisions are made. Provide a safe, supportive environment to include up-to-date facilities, equipment, instructional materials, and methods, as well as other appropriate student services to enhance the educational experience and enable all students to achieve their full potential for success. Ensure that all instructors are appropriately qualified to provide a high level of instruction to enable students to obtain realistic training and education for successful career and workplace readiness.
- Acknowledge that the System is accountable to the taxpayers and patrons of the local district and the State of Oklahoma. The district will compile and make available an annual report or profile that identifies the standards by which the district measures success. A copy of this report will also be published on the district website. The annual report or profile may measure standards such as teacher qualifications, revenue, expenditures, cost per student, economic impact of education and services, completion rates, sending school service rate, placement of completers, percentage of completers who attain an industry-recognized state or national licensure or certification, etc.
- Understand that the role of the board of education is to set policy and direction for the school district, and the role of the administration and staff is to implement the policies of the board in a fair and consistent manner. The district will maintain and enforce an up-to-date manual of Policies and Procedures. The district will utilize a strategic planning process that will include, at a minimum, the following components: core values and beliefs, vision statement, mission statement, and strategic goals. Adoption of policies not in conformity with the administrator's recommendations or beliefs is not just cause for refusal by the administration to support and implement those policies. Administration must be impartial in the execution of the school policies and the enforcement of rules and regulations. It is a breach of ethics to give preferential consideration to any individual or group because of special status or position in the school system or the community.
- Not use position or influence for any personal gain; and will avoid actions that create a conflict of interest and strive to avoid actions that might appear to create a conflict of interest. The term "conflict of interest" describes any circumstance that could cast doubt on a person's ability to act with total objectivity with regard to the district's interest. Conflicts of interest are prohibited. It is improper for a board member or school administrator to profit financially from interest in any business which publishes, sells, manufactures, or in any way deals in goods or services which are, or may be expected to be, purchased by the school system they serve. It is a breach of public trust for a board member or administrator to use confidential information concerning schools affairs (such as the knowledge of the selection of specific school sites) for personal profit or to divulge such information to others who might profit. Although it is impossible to list all potential conflict of interest situations, the following examples represent situations where a conflict of interest could arise: A direct or indirect financial interest in any business or organization that is a district vendor or competitor, if the employee or board of education member can influence decisions with respect to the district's business. Use of any district asset for the employee's personal business advantage (examples of such assets include not only equipment, tools, and supplies, but also valuable ideas, technical data, and other confidential information). Relationships, including business, financial, personal, and family may give rise to conflicts of interest or the appearance of a conflict. Employees should carefully evaluate relationships as they relate to district business to avoid conflict or the appearance of a conflict.
- Fulfill professional responsibilities with honesty and integrity. The Board of Education, superintendent, administration, faculty, and staff will fulfill their duties and responsibilities with honesty and integrity and improve their professional effectiveness through continuing professional development. Board members will be diligent and well informed of issues surrounding Board decisions and regularly attend Board meetings.
- Support the Constitutions of the State of Oklahoma and the United States of America and obey all federal, state, and local laws. Board members will uphold the Oath of Office. Professional development will be held annually for board members, superintendent, administration, faculty, and staff to learn about new laws.
- Encourage effective communication between the Board, the students, the staff, and all elements of the community. A communication plan will be developed to address internal and external audiences.
- Improve professional effectiveness through continuing professional development. In addition to meeting the minimum requirements for continuing education mandated by state law, board members, administration and staff have a professional obligation to attend conferences, seminars, and other learning activities that hold promise of contributing to their professional growth and development.
Reporting and Resolving Alleged Ethical Violations
Board members and employees should report any concerns about Kiamichi Tech business practices that appear to be unethical, or which may violate Kiamichi Tech’s Code of Ethics policy or any applicable laws. Employees should report ethical concerns or violations to their supervisor or the Superintendent. Concerns involving the Superintendent should be reported to the President of the Board of Education. If the individual making the report believes that the complaint may involve the President of the Board he/she may report to any other member of the Board. The nature of the complaint shall determine the manner in which the complaint shall be investigated and resolved. However, generally the district shall use the procedures included in the district approved grievance procedures with adaptation in the procedures appropriate to the nature and severity of the ethical complaint. No adverse action shall be taken or threatened against any employee as reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint was made or the information was disclosed with the knowledge that is was false or with willful disregard or deliberate indifference for its truth or falsity.
Adopted September 9, 2025
