Ottumwa Schools - Board Meeting - 4/20/2026

The Ottumwa Schools Board held a meeting on April 20, 2026, where several procurement and budget-related items were discussed and approved. Key procurement actions included the approval of a contract extension with DriveQuest for student driver education services for fiscal years 2027 through 2029, featuring a modest rate increase and escalators. The board also formally accepted the completion of the James Elementary classroom renovation project, which came in under budget, authorizing final payment to the general contractor. Additionally, the board approved the student council trip to New York City, partnering with EF Tours, with provisions for fundraising to assist students who cannot afford the trip. Discussions also touched on upcoming capital projects, including a potential baseball/softball facility, with plans to consider using a civil engineer instead of an architect to manage the project. The board certified the 2026-27 budget without changes and ratified a custodial maintenance group bargaining agreement that included a 3.65% total package increase and contract language updates. No other procurement or contracting decisions were noted during the meeting.