An attempt to rewrite a policy to tighten security in the West Salem School District had to be tabled when school board members discussed gaps in security measures, some of which might be unenforceable.

In its ongoing policy review procedure, the board’s policy committee updated the security policy to include cameras on campus and vehicles, and requiring visitor passes and parking permits for staff and students.

The redrafted policy also spells out that for non-school hours, alarms, exterior lighting and security cameras are to be maintained and in good working order.

The board, at its meeting Monday night, ran into two obstacles that pointed to security gaps. The board learned that an exterior security camera that has been dogged with technical problems still was unable to pan and the position has shifted so it is not focused on the areas needing security.

The other obstacle was the re-drafted policy does not include any mention of requiring staff to wear their badges at all times.

“I’m going to play devil’s advocate,” said policy committee member Ann Bina. “I don’t believe every teacher all the time wears their name badge. Can it even be enforced?”

According to board President Errol Kindschy, there is nothing in writing requiring staff to wear their badges.

“It is something that is certainly expected,” Kindschy said.

Discussion revealed board members aren’t convinced it is enforceable. “The only way to be enforced is for people who see someone without their badge to call them on it,” said board

member Tom Ward. “Ask them why they aren’t wearing their badge.”

Because board members thought it important to include something in writing about staff wearing badges, even if it might be unenforceable, and because of the inoperable camera, the policy was sent back to committee.

Board members have previously resisted writing unenforceable policies.

In other business, the board approved for a second reading a number of policies, including prohibiting animals on school grounds during school hours and activities, and requiring leashes and control of animals on school grounds during non-school hours.

The board also approved the second reading of the school’s public solicitation/advertising policy to prohibit for-profit organizations from advertising on school property, but it provides some leeway for nonprofit advertising.

The board approved the hiring of Bryan Kinkel as the junior varsity girls soccer coach for the 2010 season.