5000 Policy – Recruitment and Selection of Staff

Decisions about hiring, assigning or transferring staff are based on maximizing the effectiveness of that staff member within Bellingham Public Schools.

The board ratifies hiring and termination decisions made by the superintendent. Staff positions are established by the superintendent to provide the district’s comprehensive program of education. New positions are established by the superintendent as needed. The superintendent establishes the necessary skills, competencies, qualifications, education, experience and past performance levels for each position as it relates to the district’s comprehensive program of education, and the goal of continued improvement in student learning. Selection of staff is based on which candidate is the most qualified for the position and is made pursuant to the district’s standard screening, interview and reference check process and equity requirements.

Positions are created within budget parameters and legal requirements.

Cross References:

Policy 5005 - Employment and Volunteers: Disclosures, Certification Requirements, Assurances and Approval

Policy 5610 - Substitute Employment

Legal References:

RCW 28A.400.300 Hiring and discharging of employees Written leave policies Seniority and leave benefits of employees transferring between school districts and other educational employers.

RCW 28A.405.210 Conditions and contracts of employment Determination of probable cause for nonrenewal of contracts Nonrenewal due to enrollment decline or revenue loss Notice Opportunity for hearing

RCW 43.43.830 Background checks Access to children or vulnerable persons Definitions

RCW 43.43.832 Background checks Disclosure of information - Sharing of criminal background information by health care facilities

RCW 49.44.200 Personal social networking accounts Restrictions on employer access - Definitions

RCW 49.44.205 Violations of RCW 49.44.200 Civil action - Remedies

Chapter 162-12 WAC Preemployment Inquiry Guide (Human Rights Commission)