Does this policy cover a teacher or a principal who is also a member of the school board?
Such member is covered while engaged in duties as a teacher or principal but not while acting as a member of the school board.
Are libel and slander covered?
Yes, while the member is engaged in activities as a professional educator.
A member of the public is injured while on school property
and sues the school system. Would this be covered?
No. This policy does not cover the school system. It covers the individual members.
A student is physically injured during a scheduled football
practice. He alleges negligence on the part of the coach. Is the
coach covered?
Yes, under coverage A. In a case where the coach instructed a player to "run the bleachers" as discipline for missing practice, the student fell and suffered serious injuries.
A claim is made against a principal or teacher for damages
as a result of the suspension of a student. Is coverage provided
under coverage A?
Yes, since monetary damages are alleged.
A suit is filed demanding reinstatement of a student
alleging improper suspension by a principal or teacher. What coverage
is provided?
Since this action asks for "injunctive relief," and since it involves "other professional responsibilities," Coverage C would apply. Reimbursement of attorney fees up to $5,000 for each principal and teacher would be paid if the suspension were upheld.
Are principals and teachers insured against criminal
acts?
Corporal punishment, whether civil or criminal, is under Coverage A. Any other criminal act is covered under B with the maximam of $5,000 payable whether or not the insured is exonerated.
A claim is made against a teacher or principal as the
result of a student being injured during an experiment in the science
lab. What coverage is provided?
The accident falls under Coverage A.
A claim is falsely and fraudulently made against a teacher
for bodily injury to a student alleging negligence on the part of the
teacher. Is this covered?
Yes. The duty of the insurance company to defend is far greater than the duty to pay. It pays when an insured is judged liable; but it must defend even if the allegation be false, groundless or fraudulent.
What coverage is there in the policy for a member who feels
unjustly terminated or unjustly censured by a board
action?
The policy covers attorney fees up to $5,000 providing termination or allegations at a hearing are resolved in favor of the teacher. In one case, a teacher was suspended and asked to resign although he felt he had done nothing to void his contract. Negotiations resulted in the teacher recovering requested pay, a contract of release and a recommendation. His attorney fee was paid under Coverage B.
An educator is accused of sexual misconduct with a student
or another teacher. Is coverage provided?
Yes, under Coverage B only. This may or may not be a criminal action, but whether criminal or civil, attorney fees up to $5,000 are payable whether or not the educator is exonerated.
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