The School District of Westfield prohibits nepotism and considers it a major conflict of interest in the work place. For the purpose of this policy, nepotism is defined as any employee or Board member who engages in the giving or showing of favoritism, giving preferential treatment or the appearance of improper influence to a person or persons such as relatives or close friends without merit.

Relatives under this policy include the following relationships: the employee’s spouse or ex-spouse, domestic partner, child, domestic partner’s children, mother, father, brother, sister, step-family, aunt, uncle, mother-in-law, father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, grandparents and grandchildren of the employee, spouse or member of the employee’s household, other than roommates.

Nepotism and conflict of interest exists where an individual has authority (or practical power) in any of the following circumstances: interviewing, hiring, recommending someone for employment, promoting, assignments, assigning tasks or work, purchasing from or recommending purchasing from (see Policy 6320), removing or disciplining, auditing, performance evaluating, or awarding quotes or bids.

This policy is not intended to discourage otherwise qualified individuals who are friends or relatives from working in the District as long as there is no conflict of interest. Employees who marry or become members of the same household may continue employment as long as there is not a direct or indirect supervisor/subordinate relationship, or an actual, appearance of, or perception of a conflict of interest.

In cases where a conflict of interest may exist, as defined by this policy, the District Administrator will take action for alternative interviewing, supervision, evaluation, and consideration of employment or contracting.

This anti-nepotism provision shall be subject to all anti-discrimination requirements applicable to an individual or the District. Employees witnessing nepotism or conflicts of interest under this policy shall report such activity as directed in Policy 9130. No employee may be subject to reprimand or disciplinary action for good faith reports under this policy.

Adopted 2/25/15