5271 Policy – Reporting Improper Governmental Action (Whistleblower Protection)

Bellingham Public Schools encourages the reporting, consistent with the district’s procedures, of improper governmental actions by any district officers or employees and will protect employees against retaliatory employment actions for reporting improper governmental actions when the reports are made in compliance with this policy and related procedure.

District officers and employees are prohibited from taking retaliatory action against an employee because the employee has in good faith reported alleged improper governmental action in accordance with this policy and related procedure.

The superintendent/designee will establish procedures for receiving and acting on employee reports of improper governmental actions and responding to allegations of retaliation.

Cross References:

Policy 3421 – Child Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Prevention

Policy 3231 - Student Records

Policy 4020 - Confidential Communications

Legal References:

Chapter 42.41 RCW Local Government Whistleblower Protection

Management Resources:

Policy News, December 2023

Policy News, October 2015

Adopted: 2/11/93

Revised: 9/27/24

Superintendent or Board Approved: Superintendent Approved