Gifts & Donations

All employees of the Paramus Board of Education must uphold the highest standards of ethics and avoid any actual or perceived conflicts of interest when it comes to the acceptance of gifts, donations, or other items of value. This handbook outlines the conditions under which gifts and donations may be accepted and the procedures for doing so in a manner that maintains public trust and transparency.

Employees of the Paramus Public Schools shall not solicit or accept any gift, favor, service, benefit, or item of value that could reasonably be perceived to influence, or appear to influence, their professional judgment or official actions. All employees are expected to act in the best interest of the district and its students at all times, free from personal gain or outside influence. A"Donation Approval Form" must be completed and forwarded to the Superintendent for final consideration.

It is important for staff members to understand that they may be responsible for any additional expenses directly resulting from certain donations, such as transportation or installation costs.

Gifts from Students and Families

Employees may accept modest, unsolicited gifts from students or parents/guardians that are of nominal value (generally not exceeding $25) and intended as tokens of appreciation and with the approval of the immediate supervisor and the Superintendent.
Gifts of cash, checks, or equivalent monetary instruments (e.g., gift cards) are strictly prohibited.
Employees must not solicit gifts from students, parents, or guardians for themselves or on behalf of other staff.

Gifts from Vendors and Third Parties

Employees shall not accept gifts, gratuities, meals, entertainment, or other items of value from vendors, service providers, consultants, or organizations doing business or seeking to do business with the district.
Exceptions may be made for nominal promotional items (e.g., pens, calendars) with minimal monetary value, provided they are not intended to influence decision-making or contractual relationships.
Any gift or donation that exceeds a nominal value must be reported to the Superintendent or the Business Administrator for review and approval.

Donations to the District

Donations of funds, equipment, materials, or services intended for school use must be directed to the appropriate building principal or district administrator.
All such donations are subject to review to ensure they align with the district’s educational mission, policies, and operational needs.
Acceptance of significant donations may require approval by the Superintendent and/or the Board of Education in accordance with board policy and applicable law.

Conflict of Interest Considerations

Employees must avoid any conduct that gives the appearance of favoritism or compromised objectivity. The acceptance of gifts or donations must not interfere with or influence professional responsibilities, nor should it provide preferential treatment to any person or entity.

Reporting and Compliance

Employees who are offered or receive a gift or donation that falls outside the acceptable parameters of this policy must report the offer to their immediate supervisor or to the Human Resources Department. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, in accordance with board policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

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