Board approves curriculum, five-bus purchase, energy amendment and HFSA contract extension

The Heartland Consolidated Schools Board of Education took several formal actions during its Dec. 15 meeting, approving curriculum guides, a bus purchase, an energy-supply contract amendment, and a contract extension for the district's food-service provider.

Curriculum: The board approved the 2026–27 high-school and Legacy HVA curriculum guides on a motion by Ms. Shaw, supported by Ms. Custodio. Board members thanked curriculum staff for clear presentation and voted in favor by roll-call.

Bus purchase (bond funds): On a motion by Mrs. Shaw, supported by Mr. Campbell, the board approved the purchase of five buses funded by the 2020 bond. A speaker summarized pricing as "5 buses, 161.5 apiece for a total of $807,469." The motion carried by roll-call.

Electric-supply amendment: The board authorized the superintendent or CFO to amend the district's contract with CMS Energy to purchase electric supply at a price not to exceed 0.0825 (as stated in the proposal). CFO Rachel explained the request resulted from a statutory increase in required renewable content and an expiring federal investment tax credit; staff estimated an incremental district cost of about $28,000 per year but said locking in the price now could avoid higher future increases. The motion passed on roll-call.

HFSA contract extension: The board approved an extension of the Heartland Food Service Association contract. Administration said the extension addresses concerns about potential midyear pay cuts tied to the free-meal program's uncertainty and brings the salary schedule into compliance with upcoming minimum-wage requirements. The extension was approved on voice/roll-call.

Votes at a glance (select outcomes):
- 2026–27 high-school and Legacy HVA curriculum guides: Approved (mover: Ms. Shaw; support: Ms. Custodio).
- Bus purchase (5 buses; ~$807,469 total): Approved (mover: Mrs. Shaw; support: Mr. Campbell).
- Electric purchase amendment with CMS Energy (price cap as presented): Approved (mover: Mr. Campbell; support: Mrs. Shaw).
- Heartland Food Service Association contract extension: Approved (mover: Ms. Custodio; support: Mr. Keller).

The board moved on to other items after formal votes and set the next regular meeting for Jan. 12, 2026.