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Gordon Thomas
Question: I have been asked to assist with my child’s after-grad activities this spring. Is this okay?
Answer: Teachers, even those who are parents of graduating students, should restrict their involvement in graduation ceremonies to school-based activities. This would include the presentation ceremonies and a school-sponsored dance or other celebration activities that are adequately chaperoned, school sanctioned and protected by district insurance policies.
In planning school-sponsored activities, teachers should not become involved in planning Safe Grad parties, bush parties with organized safe drivers, home parties or other activities that may expose them to legal, financial and professional liability in the event that something goes wrong. Involvement of school staff in the planning, even allowing the planning to take place on school property, may expose the staff member, the principal and the district to a lawsuit in the event of an incident. It is best to say no to involvement at an early stage.
Even if a teacher believes he or she is acting as a parent, other parents may still look upon that person as a teacher who will maintain a professional standard throughout. A teacher is expected to maintain a high level of conduct, especially in any situation that may involve the safety of children. One must not, for example, become involved in any activity that could involve the illegal consumption of alcohol.
If you have questions or concerns about this advice, please call a Member Services staff officer at the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s offices in Edmonton (1-800-232-7208) or Calgary (1-800-332-1280).
Questions for consideration in this column are welcome. Please address them to Gordon Thomas at Barnett House (gordon.thomas@ata.ab.ca).
