Instruction & Support Services Committee Wed 10/22/2025 5:30 PM (Recorded Version)

The Bridgeport Public Schools Instruction & Support Services Committee met on October 22, 2025, to discuss several procurement and budget-related topics. A key agenda item was the proposed renewal of a $70,000 annual contract with Thought Exchange, a communication and survey platform used to engage stakeholders and gather qualitative data for decision-making. The committee reviewed usage statistics, benefits, and concerns about the platform's effectiveness and cost, ultimately voting to refer the renewal approval to the full board. Additionally, the committee received updates on hiring kindergarten paraprofessionals through agencies Kelly Services and Delta, noting challenges with fill rates and vetting processes. The meeting also covered the PTSO program budget allocations, with schools receiving approximately $6.96 per student to develop action plans, and the need for timely submission and oversight of these plans. Finally, a detailed technology update highlighted the district's aging device fleet, estimated replacement costs of $3-5 million, ongoing efforts to secure funding, and the critical role of the IT department in maintaining current devices amid fiscal constraints.