Trustees White & Rauch Censured
The Abbotsford Board of Education has formally censured Trustees Jared White and Mike Rauch for breaching the Board’s Trustee Code of Ethics.
Following formal process under Policy 6 of the Trustee Code of Ethics, the Board found that Trustee White’s February 5, 2025, public Facebook post regarding gender identity violated the Code, and undermined the District’s efforts to create a safe and welcoming environment for all staff, students and members of the school community. Trustee Rauch was also found in breach of the Code for “liking” Trustee White’s post and for his own comment in reply to the post.
In accordance with Policy 6, both Trustees have been asked to apologize and reaffirm their support and commitment to equal educational opportunities for all students, including those with diverse gender identities.
In addition, both Trustees have been removed from ancillary public-facing roles on committees, working groups, and at school and district events. These committees and appointments include, but are not limited to:
-Abbotsford Community Foundation
-Abbotsford Youth Commission
-District Planning Team
-Education Committee
-Indigenous Education Advisory Committee
-School Liaison program/assignments
They will continue to participate as Trustees in formal meetings of the board and will continue to carry out their core governance roles. These restrictions will be reviewed at a future date.
The Abbotsford Board of Education and Abbotsford School District are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all students, staff, and families.