Rescind the Gag Order

The San Diego School Board recently hired a consultant for thousands of dollars to advise the Board on how to operate in a more civil manner.  While the Board's behavior certainly needed improvement, the solution they adopted is worse than the problem.  

When speaking to the press or otherwise publicly sharing personal opinions, members will respect the decisions of the Board and will not undermine those decisions. 

Members will not publicly express individual negative judgments about superintendent or staff performance.  Any such judgment of superintendent or staff performance will be discussed in executive session. (Board Governance Policies GC-7)

The policy further goes on to impose sanctions on board members who violate this policy, including removal from leadership positions and public censure. (GC-9).

We must not stifle dissent.  There are times when it is absolutely necessary and the above statements have a totalitarian ring to them.  Any high school civics student should be able to tell you that it is illegal and unconstitutional to muzzle public officials.  We must demand an end to decision-making behind closed doors.

My opponent, Mitz Lee,  voted in favor of the new policy.  I am calling for this unconstitutional gag order to be immediately rescinded.  Please let all of the Board members know how you feel.  We don't need new rules for the school board.  We need new members for the school board.