The Avonworth School District will maintain a strong anti-nepotism with regard to hiring.

Confusion over who is covered by the policy arose at the June 14 school board meeting when the board considered a motion to hire one of board member Eric Templin's sons for a summer custodial position.

Board members were confused about whether the district's hiring policy contained some exceptions to the rule against hiring relatives of current employees. Some thought that suppemental contracts and student employment were not included in the policy, while superintendent Dr. Valerie McDonald stated that the nepotism rule also did not apply to board members or administrators.

"I wouldn't have voted for that change," said board member Peter McKay. " I believe the nepotism policy should apply to board members."

Board member Jeff Schmid's wife, Francine, said that she was the only applicant for a coaching position, but was rejected, despite her expertise, because she was married to a school board member.

A motion to hire Templin's son was defeated in a tie vote, with Templin abstaining. Voting in favor of the hiring were board members Patrick Stewart, Lynn Evans, Frank Mucha and Marybeth Sommers. Opposed were Schmid, McKay, Oberdick and Brenda Barlek.

Schmid proposed that the nepotism policy be repealed.

"We are losing a lot of good people," Schmid said. "We are a small district and we want the best person. There should be disclosure, but you should be able to hire."

McKay disagreed.

"I strongly believe there should be a nepotism policy. It should be as strong as possible, and it should apply uniformly. It is a dangerous slippery slope if you don't have one," McKay said. "Without one, board members could be pressured to hire teachers."

The board voted 7-2 not to change the nepotism policy. Schmid and Sommers were the only "yes" votes.