August 10, 2026 Board Work Session

The Saint Joseph School District Board held a work session on August 10, 2026. No procurement awards were approved during the session; several items were presented for consideration at the August 24 board meeting. Staff reported that an RFP for updated demographic and enrollment projections is out, with options and costs to be presented for a decision. A facilities bid for Coleman’s main electrical distribution panel would be brought forward for approval, with Pinnacle Electric’s bid at $39,200, plus district-purchased equipment at $48,800 and an additional 7% for conduit and copper wiring. Staff also identified Master Seal as the low bidder at $79,000 for asphalt sealing and striping at Benton, Parkway, and Hosia. The panel work is part of the capital plan; savings from completing masonry work in-house are expected to offset about $25,000 of its cost.

Other financial and contracting matters included a proposed prepayment of 2024 bond debt, which carries a 5% coupon while debt-service funds earn about 3.66%; staff said details and a comparison with the status quo would be provided at the next board meeting. The district also reviewed an agreement with a total stated cost of $193,200 and an estimated $34,000 increase, associated with a change to flat-rate pricing and higher per-teacher insurance charges; final legal language remained under review. Catapult Learning services for nonpublic schools would be paid from Title I allocations at no district cost, and the district reported that use of East Hills Mall for a student event would save money. The board also discussed a possible apprenticeship incentive grant application and the annual tax-rate setting process; the rate would not exceed the current 4.9163. Motions recorded were to approve the agenda and to adjourn to executive session, not to approve the procurement items discussed.