No I don't think they are above using nepotism. and realize there will always be a degree of this in all school districts.
I do think if there were a panel of 6 or 8 who actually teach in the class room or are involved daily with the students. They would be more qualified to screen and evaluate potential new teachers. And the nepotism would not be as blatant as it is now.
I really believe that the students and taxpayers deserve to get the best teachers in the classroom that we all pay for.