Board reviews renewed contract with Inspired Wellness after staff report strong school‑based mental‑health support

Administration recommended a $92,400 contract with Inspired Wellness to continue school‑based mental‑health services for July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027. Mrs. Alicia Leonard, who oversees student supports, told the board the vendor provided faster response times, greater capacity and a wider set of in‑school services compared with the district’s prior arrangement. Staff described group offerings (grief, anxiety, school‑avoidance), substance‑use sessions and school‑level support for counselors when caseloads spike.

Board members asked why the contract rose (from roughly $72,187.50 the prior year to $92,400). Administration explained the current increase reflects a return to higher service hours across the middle and high school (five days split among junior high and high school) plus additional half‑days in some elementary buildings; the vendor provided a discounted rate after initial partnership development. Administrators said the district previously saw a gap in services when an earlier vendor lost therapists and that Inspired Wellness filled that need without long waits.

The board discussed program outcomes and scope, and staff said they will monitor caseloads, service hours and the vendor’s ability to maintain consistent therapists for students. Staff noted this contract is part of the district’s mandated student assistance program and emphasized the district’s priority on mental‑health access and continuity of care.