PEORIA, Ill. – The Peoria Public Schools board needs a couple more weeks to begin crafting a new strategic plan.
The board tabled a contract with K12 Coalition to develop and see through a new five-year plan. The services would be a one-year contract for $32,500, with donations covering $9000 of that amount, and the rest coming from the Education Fund.
Superintendent Jerry Bell vouched for the company when asked by board members, saying he previously worked with them in Syracuse, NY. He says the initial price tag was $50,000, but was able to negotiate the price down. And because of that familiarity, Bell stated that no other companies were considered.
Bell says the company would provide expertise in formulating the strategic plan, which includes small group discussions, and meeting with school board members for their input.
Board member Andres Diaz requested a deferral to the vote to approval. He was one of many board members who wanted more information on the agreement.
Board member Sarah Howard stated she wanted to see a contract, which she says was not included in the board packet.
“I feel better seeing the contract first before voting to pass it,” Howard said.
Board member Brenda Wilson suggested to the board that the process be done internally, citing the last two plans developed by the district and participating in them.
Before the vote to table, Bell urged the board to approve the contract because the district was operating on an expired strategic plan.
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