Annual Staff Training�Mount Vernon School District

Content:

Confidentiality

Key Access Program

Dignity in the Workplace

Confidentiality in the Workplace

MVSD Policy 4020

Link: Confidential Communications

Confidentiality Overview

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Learning Targets:

• Understand general and special education confidentiality rules.�
• Know your legal and ethical responsibilities.�

Why it matters:

• Families trust schools to protect student privacy.�
• Breaches may lead to legal or disciplinary action.

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What’s Protected and Who Can Know?

Protected Information Includes:

• Records (grades, IEPs, health, discipline, attendance)�
• Verbal, written, or electronic communication�

Only share with:

• School staff with legitimate educational interest�
• Authorized agencies or with written parental consent�

Not appropriate:

• Hallways, staff lounges, social media�
• Parents/volunteers (unless it’s their own child)

Policy and Special Education

Board Policy 4020 Highlights:

• All student information is confidential and used only as authorized.�
• Report suspected harm (abuse, drugs, self-harm) to appropriate authorities.�
• Inform students if you must share their disclosure.�

Special Education Rules (FERPA & IDEA):

• Keep IEPs, services, and related documents private.�
• Share only with staff directly supporting the student.�
• Written parent consent required for outside release (except for school transfers).

Reminders

Ask Yourself:

• “Would I want this shared about my own child?”�

If in doubt:

• Consult your administrator, HR, or Student Services.

Building Key and Access Control

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• Authorized Key Holders:

Employees who may be issued keys or fobs include:

• Administrators�
• Teachers & Substitute Teachers (as appropriate)�
• Office Staff�
• Maintenance & Security Personnel�
• Custodial & Food Services Staff�
• Emergency Responders�

Temporary access may be issued to:

• Contractors�
• Vendors

Key Holder Responsibilities

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Key and fob holders must:

• Keep keys in a secure location�
• Keep access codes confidential�
• Never share keys or codes with others�
• Ensure keys are not attached to school ID badges or lanyards
• Never give keys to students, except in an emergency�
• Turn in keys if resigning or transferring to another building�
• Turn in keys at the end of each school year, or notify the site key control monitor if retaining over summer�
• Report lost or stolen keys immediately to an administrator

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Consequences for Lost Keys

If a staff member loses their keys, disciplinary action may occur depending on the circumstances.

Dignity in the Workplace

MVSD is dedicated to fostering a professional environment where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. We value diversity and expect equity and civility in all relationships and interactions.

“Dignity”� noun – The state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.

Policies:

Policy 2130 – Character Development LINK:� Harassment, discrimination, and bias have no place in our schools.�

Policy 6510 – Civility LINK:� Mutual respect is expected. Uncivil behavior by anyone on school grounds or during school events is prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.�

Policy 1801 – Racial Equity LINK: � Equity means meeting students where they are and giving them what they need to succeed—academically, emotionally, and socially.

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What Dignity Looks Like

• Respect the rights and worth of every person�
• Embrace honesty and fairness�
• Welcome diverse views�
• Act without prejudice or bias�
• Show care and compassion for others�
• Work for equity and social justice

Professional Conduct

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• Maintain integrity and moral courage�
• Fulfill commitments and demonstrate self-discipline�
• Collaborate respectfully—even when you disagree�
• Accept responsibility for your actions

Creating a Positive Climate

• Positive school culture improves both staff and student success�
• Schools thrive when there is trust, respect, and care�
• Everyone contributes to a productive and welcoming environment

Your Role

• Speak up—don't ignore harassment�
• Support each other and address concerns early�
• Supervisors must respond promptly and appropriately�

“We must model the highest levels of professionalism and uphold behavior that aligns with our mission and values.”� – MVSD Employee Handbook

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Reporting Concerns

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If you experience or witness harassment or discrimination:

• Report it to your immediate supervisor or the Personnel Office�
• Violations may result in corrective action, including discipline or dismissal

Acknowledgement

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Please use the link below to complete the acknowledgment form, confirming that you have read and understand the policies and procedures outlined in this presentation.

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Form Link