Board approves Chartwells food contract, virtual training simulator and other routine items in 5–0 votes

The Gary Community School Corporation Board of Trustees on an otherwise routine agenda approved seven district items by recorded roll call votes, each passing 5–0.

The board voted to hire Chartwells (part of Compass Group) as the district’s food service management company for the 2025–26 school year after an RFP process. Superintendent Doctor Stokes introduced the recommendation and invited the Chartwells team to present their proposal and programs. Chartwells’ regional sales director Kelly Gill described the company’s K–12 focus, culinary staff and student-engagement programs, including a Navigate paid internship and student-choice menu pilots; Chartwells said its implementation typically produces an increase in meal program participation. The board approved the recommendation by roll call (5 yes, 0 no).

Separately the board approved purchase and implementation of a virtual training simulator for the career center, funded through the district’s Perkins grant. Presenters described the simulator as an immersive training tool for scenarios such…