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Board approves consent agenda including five‑year transportation contract with First Student; district cites 27.5% first‑year increase
Summary
The board approved the consent agenda, which included a new student transportation services contract; staff told the board the contract carries a roughly 27.5% first‑year increase tied to wage and equipment cost trends.
On April 7 the Wichita Public Schools Board of Education approved its consent agenda, which included a multi‑year student transportation services contract with First Student. Board members discussed the magnitude of the increase and background before voting to accept consent items as published.
Addie (last name not specified) and district staff said the district undertook a competitive process, reviewed market rates from peer urban districts, and issued an RFP before recommending a contract. Staff said the approximately 27.5% first‑year increase reflects wage adjustments First Student must make to remain competitive with local labor markets and to reflect higher vehicle and equipment costs compared with five years ago. Board members noted the district has raised wages for employees in recent years and that the contractor’s labor costs and equipment costs have also risen.
The motion to accept the consent agenda was made and seconded; the consent agenda passed 7–0. Board members discussed that the district conducted a thorough review and asked for clarification about the drivers of the increase; staff said the change reflects market rates and expected future wage packages and vehicle cost increases.
