Board awards graphic-design contract to update cafeteria signage and murals; child nutrition to fund $840,000 program

The SOUTHWEST ISD Board approved a contract award following a presentation on the district's plan to update cafeteria graphics, signage and wall treatments across schools.

District staff said the Request for Proposals (RFP 2425-114) produced six responses and three finalists; staff recommended Palmer Hamilton LLC as the best value. The district described a one-year base contract with two optional one-year renewals to spread work over multiple years.

Staff outlined a three-year rollout that would begin with five elementary schools (Sun Valley, Spicewood, Big Country, Medeo Creek and Bob Hope) and McAuliffe Middle School in year one; subsequent years would complete remaining elementary schools, Scobie Middle School and then the two high schools, with Southwest High School expected to require the largest portion of budget due to size. The district estimated no more than $840,000 over three years; staff said those costs would be covered by child nutrition funds.

Proposed design work includes interior wall murals, new serving-line signage that highlights nutritional values, cork boards to retain required postings, and refreshed interior branding to modernize student dining areas. Staff said middle-school and high-school work may be limited to signage only for cost savings at some sites.

A motion to approve the contract was moved and seconded; the board approved the item by voice vote with all members saying “aye.” Staff said designs will be refined with subcommittee review before implementation.