Press Release:

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) announced this morning its intent to enter into an agreement to receive contracted services from the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission (SEEC). The two entities signed a memorandum of understanding that lays a framework for negotiating a detailed contract defining the working relationship by the end of April.

“This partnership is a significant step forward in our commitment to rebuilding public trust in Seattle Public Schools,” said Interim Superintendent Susan Enfield, Ed.D. “The Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission will provide an independent ethics and whistleblower protection program that district staff and community members can rely on. We look forward to developing the detailed agreement and implementing this new program Districtwide.”

School Board President Steve Sundquist endorsed the partnership. “Dr. Enfield has made a strong immediate statement that she intends to create a culture of trust and accountability throughout Seattle Public Schools,” said Sundquist. “We want to thank the City for offering these valuable services.”

The memorandum states that the City’s ethics office will independently receive and investigate complaints of violations of the District’s ethics policy and manage complaints of retaliation against whistleblowers. The SEEC will also provide a comprehensive training program for District employees and review the District’s ethics policy and recommend any revisions it deems appropriate. The District would provide payment for these services.

“The SEEC has been an independent force for ethical, transparent City government for more than 30 years,” SEEC Executive Director Wayne Barnett said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to partner with the School District to help them reestablish public confidence that district employees are serving the best interests of Seattle’s students and families, and not their own interests.”Barnett added.

“I applaud the new Superintendent and the School Board for taking this significant step toward creating a new culture of accountability at the School District,” said Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn.

“The City’s ethics commission and its staff are fair, thorough and rigorous in enforcing a high standard of behavior for all city employees,” said Councilmember Tim Burgess, chair of the Council’s Public Safety and Education Committee. “This is a superb tool the City can promptly share with the District. We will continue to look for other opportunities to collaborate in serving Seattle’s children and families.”

The negotiated agreement will be submitted to the City Council and the School District Board of Directors for final approval. “I’m happy we’ve found a way to assist Seattle Public Schools,” said Councilmember Sally J. Clark, chair of the Council committee to which the SEEC reports. “Once an agreement has been finalized, we will take it up in committee as quickly as possible.”