This buzz word has been thrown around so much in the past 2 years I just couldn't take it anymore. If you are going to use it, and assess people by it, at a minimum make sure you understand fully what it means and most importantly understand that it is a reciprocated process -- not a one way, have it your way kind of "cooperative" behavior.
The fact of the matter is Transparency, as used in the humanities and in a social context more generally, implies openness, communication, and accountability. It is a metaphorical extension of the meaning a "transparent" object is one that can be seen through. Transparent procedures include open meetings, financial disclosure statements, freedom of information legislation, budgetary review, audits, etc.
It does not mean that the Board can tell you every thing that is going on i.e. Executive Session conversations, pending law suits or those things specifically restricted. What is OPRA'able to the public does not translate into the "ETHICAL" and/or "LEGAL" right of the Board to discuss with the public.
Let's take these cases being talked about of late. How can the Board discuss a pending suit? In what part of the world does that make sense? Who would jeopardize their legal standing by publically discussing an active case? Are we familiar with the term SEQUESTERED? Is this really about TRANSPARENCY or is it more about being IRRESPONSIBLE?
Come on people...your WANT to know does not equate to your RIGHT to know and what you have a RIGHT to know is OPRA'able!
Check out the restrictions on School Board Members (NJSBA.org) regarding the releasing of confidential information, or information that can cause harm to the public school system they serve.
After the Board Retreat in a few weeks I'll have a little more information on "what" kind of information can be provided to the public DIRECTLY from members of the Board, ONLY from the Board President and so on, but until then keep watching, reading and coming out!
or maybe a Genie Fairy Godmother Business Professional...
