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Robeson County board removes new EC provider, restores two previous contractors after split vote
Summary
The Public Schools of Robeson County board voted to remove a newly proposed contracted provider for Exceptional Children (EC) services and to reinstate two prior contractors after prolonged debate and a 7–3 vote on a substitute motion following an initial 5–5 tie.
The Board of Education for the Public Schools of Robeson County voted June 10 to remove PTS Services from the district's list of contracted providers for EC services and to restore the prior contractors Co Pediatric Therapy (listed in the transcript as Coe/Co Pediatric) and Overflow Enterprises at their previous capacity.
Board members reached the action after a contentious discussion that followed an earlier tied vote. An initial motion to approve the set of contracted EC providers as presented failed on a 5–5 vote. Board member Trey Britt then offered a substitute motion to remove PTS Services and reinstate Co Pediatric and Overflow Enterprises; Bradley Phillips seconded the substitute. By a show of hands the substitute passed 7–3.
The vote came after multiple board members raised concerns about continuity, local relationships and legal risk. "PTS is a new company," Britt said when moving the substitute motion, and several board members said they were uncomfortable replacing long-standing local contractors at short notice. Board members also urged clearer contractual terms and documentation for all EC contractors before future renewals.
Tory Purcell, clinical manager for Co Pediatric Therapy, had addressed the board during public comment earlier in the meeting after learning her company—s district contract would not be renewed. "We have grown alongside your students, adapting to the increasing needs and demands," Purcell said, and she asked the board to "consider room for dialogue to create a path forward that allows us the opportunity to continue to support your students." Her remarks were part of the public record before the contract votes.
Several board members said they wanted staff and legal counsel to document performance expectations and remedies in written contracts. During the discussion members referenced the need for consistent procurement review and parity among contractors; at least one board member urged the attorney prepare contract language to spell out expectations if contractors do not meet deadlines.
The superintendent and other staff noted the district—s EC program has operational pressures but that contracted services are necessary to meet student needs. Earlier in the meeting finance staff reported roughly $297,000 in savings when comparing EC contracted transportation costs year to year, a figure board members said they considered while assessing overall EC expenditures.
The board recorded the substitute motion to remove PTS Services and to reinstate Co Pediatric Therapy and Overflow Enterprises with the same capacity they had in the prior school year. The board also directed that legal counsel and staff prepare contracts or amendments clarifying performance expectations and accountability provisions for these contractors.
The decision closes this item at the June meeting; board members debated whether to defer the matter for additional information but ultimately voted on the substitute motion. Staff will return any requested contract language to the board for review as the district prepares its EC services for the 2025–26 school year.
Ending: The board's action resolves provider assignments for EC services for the coming school year but leaves several board members still seeking stronger documentation and oversight in future contracting decisions.
