Board approves substitute pay increase, Therapy Source addendum and equipment purchase; administration outlines next steps

The board approved several operational items during the meeting intended to address staffing and facility needs. Administration presented an addendum with Kelly Services to raise the daily substitute starting rate from $110 to $130, aiming to improve a roughly 65% fill rate for unexpected teacher absences. The administration noted agency fees and described tiered rates for longer-term substitutes; the change is intended to boost competitiveness for day-to-day substitute assignments.

Separately, administration presented an addendum to the Therapy Source agreement to provide an additional occupational therapist one day per week at Coburgdale Elementary to address increased OT needs after opening another autistic-support classroom. Administration said the rate for the addendum is included in the agenda and recommended approval.

The board also approved purchase of a replacement compressor motor for Breartown High School chiller #2 at a cost of $99,545; administration provided recent vendor quotes and warranty assurances.

All three items were presented as motions and approved on the consent or superintendent's itemized agenda as listed. Administration said it will continue to monitor substitute fill rates and report back during the budget process.