Bixby School Board Approves Contracts for Resource Officers and Janitorial Services

The Bixby School District Board of Education meeting on July 17, 2024, focused on several key financial decisions impacting the upcoming fiscal year. Among the most significant discussions were the approval of contracts for janitorial services and school resource officers, as well as updates to student meal pricing.

The board unanimously approved a contract with a statewide commercial cleaning company for athletic department janitorial services, totaling $260,640 for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. This decision follows a previous arrangement that faced challenges, prompting the board to seek a more reliable service provider. The new contract will allow for separate agreements for athletic and site building cleaning, ensuring that issues with one service do not affect the entire district.

Additionally, the board approved funding for four school resource officers at a cost of $275,733.28. This annual expense reflects a partnership with the city of Bixby, where the district covers 82% of the officers' salaries based on their time spent in schools. The board noted that the cost increase is due to union negotiations, which are beyond their control. There is hope for additional funding through grants for three more officers, which would enhance security across the district.

The board also discussed an indemnification agreement with Oklahoma Natural Gas Company for the installation of a service line at the Bixby Ninth Grade Center, ensuring protection during the installation process.

In a related financial matter, the board approved new pricing for student breakfast meals for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, aligning with standard procedures for meal pricing adjustments.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to maintaining safe and clean educational environments while managing budgetary constraints effectively. The board's decisions reflect ongoing efforts to enhance student safety and well-being in Bixby schools.