Board members shall not be held personally liable for actions taken in the performance of their duties and responsibilities vested in them by the laws of Iowa and the members of the school district community.  In carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office, board members shall act in good faith.

The school district shall defend, save harmless and indemnify board members against tort claims or demands, whether groundless or otherwise, arising out of an alleged act or omission occurring within the scope of their official duties, unless it constitutes a willful or wanton act or omission.  However, the school district shall not save harmless or indemnify board members for punitive damages.

Legal Reference:       Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).

                                  42 U.S.C. §§ 1983, 1985 (1988).

                                  Iowa Code ch. 670 (1995).

Cross Reference:       709  Insurance Program

Approved 7-14-11     Reviewed 7-17-24                Revised