Board approves one‑year Aramark nutrition contract after contested debate and abstention

The Springfield R‑XII Board of Education on Feb. 24 approved a one‑year food‑service management contract with Aramark, including four one‑year renewal options, after a contested discussion that prompted a roll‑call vote. The contract passed with five affirmative votes and one abstention.

Board member Doctor Mahad Makani pressed Aramark representative Kim Kelleher on program details including eligibility and funding. Kelleher said the dinner program is reimbursed "by Department of Health and Senior Services through the CACFP program and after school and after at‑risk after school meals." When asked whether non‑enrolled neighborhood children could receive meals, Kelleher confirmed "it's any child 18 and under," adding they would need to enter through the front of the building.

Mahad Makani also cited survey results she said came from Aramark employees and parents: "I don't know how many employees they have, but 54 responded... 52 individuals said no [they did not feel supported], and only 2 said yes." She told the board the survey responses raised concerns about staffing levels, workload, workplace fairness and whether employees felt comfortable speaking up without fear of retaliation.

Other board members urged adherence to debate time limits. A motion to call the question was seconded and taken to roll‑call; the chair recorded the final tally as 5 yes and 1 abstain.

The Aramark contract discussion included requests for follow‑up information. Board members asked for details on reimbursement rates, the distinction between space reimbursement and cash‑in‑lieu for commodities, welfare‑committee meeting dates, and broader data on participation and program costs. Kelleher offered to provide figures she did not have at the podium.

The contract approval is recorded as a formal board action; several members asked that staff continue to monitor meal quality and engagement with wellness and menu advisory committees.