“Bias” refers to a pre-existing impression or opinion, either positive or negative, about a program, the institution in which it is located, or its staff, which might affect one’s ability to assess accreditation matters objectively. “Conflict of interest” is any circumstance in which a person, close associate or institution might be adversely affected by or benefit from an accreditation decision. CPE program representatives, cohort committee members, Commission members, or Commission chair may request a person to withdraw from discussion and vote about a program if the person is judged to hold a bias about the center under review.
Accreditation Commission Member Conflict of Interest Declaration
Site Team Member Conflict of Interest Declaration
While the structure of ACPE gives full authority for Accreditation matters to the Accreditation Commisison, the Board of Directors, as the fiduciary is also asked to sign a Conflict of Interest Declaration that will inform their behavior should an accreditation matter be presented to the Board.
Even though the ACPE staff does not participate in any decision making related to accreditation matters, each staff member is required to sign a Conflict of Interest Declaration that will inform their behavior should the need arise.
Additionally, ACPE requires everyone who is serving on an ACPE Board, Commission, Committee, or Staff to sign a general Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement.
- Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement for Board, Commission, Committee, and Staff members