Board authorizes spending threshold for substitute staffing contract

The Estacada School Board authorized district administration to exceed $150,000 in spending for a professional services contract with ESS West LLC to provide substitute personnel for the 2025–26 school year.

The motion, moved and seconded during the meeting as part of action item M, authorizes the district to contract for substitutes for teachers, paraeducators, cooks and custodians. Administration noted substitute costs are paid through the general budget and that utilization has increased, making last year’s spend roughly $165,000 over budget.

District staff told the board the $150,000 threshold requires board authorization when exceeded; the contract pays substitute wages and related costs through the vendor. Board members discussed substitute per‑day rates, local competition for substitute staff, and the district goal to limit leave where possible. One board member asked for clarification that the authorization is not a fee paid to a broker but the overall spending for substitute payroll and services.

The motion carried on a voice vote. Administration said payroll and utilization will be monitored and reported in monthly financial statements.