1115 -CONSTITUENT SERVICES
The goal of the district is to respond promptly and professionally to any questions or concerns of the public. As elected officials acting on behalf of the public, Durham Public Schools (DPS) board members have a responsibility to be accessible to the public and to assist citizens with suggestions, questions, or complaints regarding DPS. Board members commit to providing service to constituents, but do not involve themselves in problem investigation and management.
1115.1 The board expects the superintendent to maintain a constituent services process that includes the following:
a. A process for handling constituents’ requests for information or assistance in a timely and effective manner.
b. A designated staff member or members to whom board members may refer constituent service requests.
c. A process for recording and tracking requests and responses.
d. A feedback process for informing board members of the resolution of requests.
1115.2 The following definitions apply:
• Constituents are residents of the community who are represented by an elected school board member. Constituents are receivers of public services and provide public funds for those services.
• Governance is the primary role of the elected school district board member. Duties of board members are described in Policy 1100.
• Management is the responsibility of the superintendent who is selected by the board and whose duties are described by state law and reviewed in Policy 1110.
• Appropriate constituent service is defined as each board member ensuring that management takes responsibility for helping parents and other citizens receive the services they need. This includes an obligation not to confer special advantage on employees, parents, students, vendors, or any other person or entity.
• Inappropriate constituent service is defined as board member involvement in management or delivery of specific services or desired results, even if the problem is serious and/or board member’s involvement is minimal.
1115.3 The superintendent shall develop procedures to ensure timely and appropriate communication with constituents who contact board members and DPS leadership, consistent with this policy.
Legal Reference: G.S. 115C-36, -45
Adopted Effective: July 1, 1999
Revised Effective: January 24, 2008
Durham Public Schools Board of Education Constituent Services Flowchart
