School governing body members earn double: concerns about conflict of interest.

School governing body members earn double: concerns about conflict of interest.

A recent study by NOS and Nieuwsuur shows that several school governing bodies in the Netherlands are privately involved with education consultancy firms besides their work. This raises questions about their sincerity within education.

Double Income

A study by NOS and Nieuwsuur shows that ten school governing bodies commissioned assignments to (education) consultancy firms where they hold a paid position. This means they receive not only their salary as school governing bodies but also income from their consultancy work.

Risk Of Conflict Of Interest

A major concern and important risk is the conflict of interest. When a school governing body gives advice through their own firm, this can endanger objectivity. Decisions may be made to benefit their own company and less often for the good of the school and the students. For example, a school governing body might choose new teaching methods and products from their own consultancy firm, even if cheaper and possibly better alternatives exist.

Less Money For Other Expenses

If a school governing body decides to work with (their own) commercial consultancy firm and part of the public money goes there, less money remains for other expenses. Because of consultancy costs, less budget may remain for direct investments in education and students. For example, less money is left for new learning materials, sports equipment, or extra support for students.

Questions About Transparency And Accountability

Parents, teachers, and others want to know how decisions are made and if these are for the benefit of the children and education. So, there are questions about transparency and accountability within education. It is now unclear how often and why school governing bodies decide to hire (own) consultancy firms and what criteria they use.

Shocked Reactions

Reactions in the education sector vary, but many are shocked. Amsterdam school governing body Dave Ensberg says: “Suppose the execution goes wrong. Then you have to organize a complaint procedure against yourself? Or against someone you know well? That gets very complicated.” Patrick Tuil, school governing body in Groningen, thinks you can never objectively say the governing body made the right choice if they or a colleague have an interest in the firm.

NOS and Nieuwsuur made an extensive report on this topic.