Dear City Schools colleagues,
As we head into the summer, we would like to thank you for your outstanding work with our students and families this year. We had a very productive and constructive school year and look forward to exceptional summer programming for our young people. Congratulations!
During the summer, you may find moments when you want to comment publicly about local or national issues and concerns. In any civic engagement, a wide range of emotions and perspectives can be found.
City Schools supports your First Amendment rights to speak freely as a private citizen as long as it does not impact your ability to perform your job.
As you interact with our students, your colleagues, and our families, we strongly encourage you to review our nondiscrimination policy, Policy GBI – Guidelines for Staff Participation in Political Activities, and Policy JICK – Prohibition Against Harassment. In summary, these guidelines provide the foundation for mutual respect in our school system.
The Employee Handbook references those guidelines in critical areas of discourse, including:
Social media – “Employees must conduct their private life activities (including social media activities) in a manner that is not prejudicial to their effectiveness as a City Schools employee and recognize that criminal, dishonest, and other inappropriate activities may have an adverse impact on employment with City Schools.”
Political events – “Employees must refrain from involvement in political activities while on the job during work hours; nor should such activities negatively impact employees’ ability to fulfill their job duties.”
Media inquiries – “Under the First Amendment, City Schools employees may speak on matters of public concern when speaking as a citizen and otherwise adhering to all legal standards.” Employees may not speak on behalf of their schools or the district; only the CEO or her designee may do that.
We respect the right of individuals to hold passionate positions on community issues. As the school year comes to a close, we would like to extend our gratitude for your continued support and partnership. Enjoy the warmer weather, and we look forward to seeing you next school year!