School Board Meeting 3-17-26

The Bentonville Schools Board of Education held their meeting on March 17, 2026. Key procurement-related actions included approval of a $1,277,010 guaranteed maximum price contract for a chiller replacement project at Bentonville West High School, scheduled as a summer project and funded from the building fund. The board also approved the adoption of a new K-6 science curriculum, selecting Amplify Science after a thorough review and pilot process, with a multi-year contract and budget considerations discussed. Additionally, the board approved the renewal of the student accident insurance policy at the same premium rate as the prior year, covering students in AAA-sanctioned activities. Budget approval was granted, reflecting a fund balance of $99.2 million and revenue exceeding expenditures by $15.6 million year-to-date. The board also approved a 4% salary increase for staff, with a separate revised salary schedule for occupational and physical therapists to remain above market rates. These decisions reflect ongoing capital improvements, curriculum investments, insurance coverage, and staff compensation adjustments within the district's fiscal planning.