Rowan-Salisbury School Board Approves Contracts for New School

The Rowan-Salisbury School Board has approved crucial contracts for the upcoming J.H. Knox Intermediate School, including a significant agreement for furniture and athletic equipment. On March 15, 2024, the board sanctioned a contract with PMC Commercial Interiors, Inc. from Charlotte for a total of $1,254,790.85. The furniture will be delivered and installed upon completion of the school’s construction, with the anticipated delivery date set for no later than June 15, 2026.

A Furniture Selection Committee was formed to oversee the procurement of furnishings for the new school. This committee reviewed submissions from seven vendors, ultimately narrowing the field and selecting PMC based on a detailed evaluation matrix. This assessment considered factors such as cost, reliability, and the vendor’s prior experience.

In addition to the furniture contract, Dr. Jamie Durant, Chief Operations Officer, presented a contract for athletic equipment worth $119,858.39 from Dale’s Sporting Goods of China Grove. Durant informed the board that the district had solicited proposals from local vendors for athletic supplies. The process involved collaboration with neighboring districts and input from coaches to create a comprehensive list of necessary items for the school’s athletic programs.

The final list comprised 142 items, including football helmets, soccer uniforms, and wrestling mats. Durant noted that while multiple bids were received, only Dale’s Sporting Goods was able to meet the full requirements. He emphasized the importance of securing the contract before the end of the year to lock in prices for high-demand items.

“Some items, particularly shoulder pads and helmets, are in high demand in the spring,” Durant stated. He mentioned that any early deliveries could be stored until they are needed. While students were not directly involved in safety-related decisions, Durant suggested they might participate in future uniform selection processes.

School board member Dr. Lynn Marsh expressed her support for choosing a local business, highlighting the community’s economic benefit. The board unanimously approved the contract after Marsh motioned for its acceptance, with Dr. Rebecca Childs seconding the motion.

Leadership Changes at Rowan-Salisbury School Board

In a related development, the Rowan-Salisbury Schools Board of Education appointed Kathy McDuffie Sanborn as chair and Dr. Alisha Byrd-Clark as vice chair during the meeting. Superintendent Dr. Kelly Withers congratulated Sanborn as she passed the gavel following the chair appointment process.

Dr. Byrd-Clark, filling the unexpired term for the special district vacated by Sabrina Harris, was the sole nominee for the vice chair position, receiving unanimous approval from the board.

These decisions reflect the board’s commitment to advancing educational infrastructure and leadership within the Rowan-Salisbury School District.