Rowan-Salisbury School Board Approves Key Contracts and Leadership Changes

The Rowan-Salisbury School Board made significant decisions during its recent meeting, approving contracts for furniture and athletic equipment for the new J.H. Knox Intermediate School. The board selected PMC Commercial Interiors, Inc. of Charlotte for the furniture contract, valued at $1,254,790.85. According to board officials, the delivery and installation of the furniture are expected to be completed by June 15, 2026.

To guide the procurement process, the school system established a Furniture Selection Committee. This committee reviewed proposals from seven vendors, ultimately narrowing the selection down to three finalists. After conducting interviews and evaluating furniture samples, the committee chose PMC Commercial Interiors based on a set of criteria that included cost, specifications, and prior experience.

In addition to the furniture contract, the board also addressed the procurement of athletic equipment. Chief Operations Officer Dr. Jamie Durant presented a contract with Dale’s Sporting Goods from China Grove, totaling $119,858.39. This contract includes a list of 142 items necessary for athletics and physical education, ranging from football helmets to wrestling mats.

Dr. Durant explained that the district sought proposals from local vendors and collaborated with a neighboring district to compile a comprehensive list of athletic needs. “Our athletic director worked with coaches and PE teachers to ensure the list met our requirements,” Durant stated. Although nine vendors submitted proposals, only Dale’s Sporting Goods met all of the district’s criteria.

Durant emphasized the importance of approving the contract promptly to secure current pricing, stating, “If they do arrive early, we would house those until they are ready for use.” He also noted that while students were not consulted regarding safety equipment, they could be involved in selecting uniforms.

Board member Dr. Lynn Marsh expressed her support for partnering with a local business and highlighted the repurposing of equipment from Knox to benefit schools with increased student populations. The motion to approve the contracts was unanimously carried.

Leadership Changes Within the Board

In addition to the contract approvals, the Rowan-Salisbury School Board appointed Kathy McDuffie Sanborn as chair and Dr. Alisha Byrd-Clark as vice chair. Superintendent Dr. Kelly Withers congratulated Sanborn, returning the gavel following the appointment process. Byrd-Clark, who is stepping into the role for the unexpired term of former board member Sabrina Harris, was the sole nominee for the vice chair position and received unanimous support.

This meeting marked a crucial step in preparing for the opening of the new J.H. Knox Intermediate School, with the board focusing on both infrastructure and leadership to ensure a successful launch.