Barnabas File

We live in interesting times when we split hairs over what is legal and what is moral.     One Presidential advisor responded to a question from an interviewer in this way: “Oh, now you want to discuss what is moral?  That’s a different matter entirely.” No matter what role we find ourselves in, we have a responsibility not only to obey the law but to be honest. My friend Jerry Gaither has passed but he provided some good advice about ethical decision making.  Jerry was a county superintendent of schools in Tennessee during a highly politicized and divisive period.  He shared with me what he called “an administrator’s ethics test.” Here are some key items in the list that Jerry wrote almost thirty years ago. Can I look in the mirror and feel good about myself? Will it make me proud? Will it stand the light of day--tomorrow as well as today? Would I feel good if my family knew about it? And, the supreme test--Could I kneel besi...

My friend Jerry Gaither was a county superintendent of schools when it was an elected position, subject to the whims of electoral politics.  He also served during a time when folks here in Tennessee were dealing with significant issues relate to racial integration.  Jerry learned a lot as an administrator, challenging him to grow as a believer. Several years ago, Jerry shared with me one sheet of paper he entitled “Decision Making: An Administrator’s Ethics Test.”  I provide it here for your consideration. 1.       Will I be violating board policy, the law, or the rights of others? 2.       Is it equitable?  Can I sit down around a table and face all parties concerned at the same time?  Does it promote wholesome relationships? Can I look in the mirror and feel good about myself? 3.       Is it explainable?   By this I mean, is it explainable in a clear and concise manner that the general public...