The Warren County R-III School Board set and clarified policy related to nepotism and favoritism within the hiring and management realm.The matter addressed a personnel concern that had surfaced in previous years.It was a step in the district’s effort to be more transparent with its operations.“The board wanted to send a message that we’re not going to have favoritism and really make sure we get the best people for the positions we’re hiring for,” said Superintendent Dr. Gregg Klinginsmith. “Regardless of who they’re related to, it’s going to be about who’s the best person for the position.”Board President John Clinger said, in line with its goals related to hiring and retaining qualified staff, the board wants to hire based upon qualification, not friendship or family connections.“We felt like for the culture that we’re trying to develop, that was important,” said Clinger.Concerns regarding past administration and an inability to come to an agreement about hiring policies were addressed.“It’s always been a criticism in community about board members who have spouses or family members who are employees in the district,” said Clinger. “We felt if we were expecting that of our employees, we should also hold ourselves to that standard.”The new policy outlines guidelines that include, “No person will be newly employed that is in the family of a board member.”Anyone who is married to someone who works in the district cannot run for the school board.“We will allow spouses to work in the same buildings,” noted Clinger. “We felt like we weren’t big enough to restrict that yet.”Warren County R-III School District logo