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Board approves ESSER-funded vehicles, laundry equipment, technology purchases and retention pay
Summary
Trustees authorized purchases tied to ESSER homeless allocations — two vehicles for homeless/migrant transport, commercial laundry equipment for the wellness center, technology purchases and a $247,000 retention-pay allocation to be divided among qualifying staff.
The Forrest City School District board approved a package of purchases and personnel payments drawn from ESSER and district funds designed to support homeless and migrant students, campus operations and staff retention.
Administration proposed buying two Red River vehicles at a combined $79,600 using 70% ESSER homeless allocation and 30% district funds so the fleet could be used for other district purposes. The superintendent explained the split would allow use beyond purely homeless transport, for example for small sports travel or professional development. Trustees asked about vehicle controls and usage tracking; administration said processes will be developed before deployment.
The board also approved $20,376.06 for commercial-grade laundry equipment for a new health and wellness center, with the administration proposing a 50/50 split between ESSER homeless funds and district funds to permit wider access for non-homeless students as well.
Two technology purchases from Howard Technology Solutions — $7,044.47 and $20,850.54 in the packet — were combined and approved for procurement. Administration said these purchases will be spent according to ESSER timelines and obligations.
Separately, the board advanced an ESSER-funded retention-pay program: administration proposed allocating $247,000 to distribute as a one-time retention payment of $825 to each qualifying staff member who was employed in the prior year and returns for the 2024–25 school year. The payment is scheduled for Oct. 15; administration said they will correct any clerical omissions for eligible staff.
Taken together, trustees said the measures aim to preserve staff, improve student support services and ensure required ESSER funds are obligated within federal timelines.
