Board tables DAO Consulting LLC training contract amid state executive‑order compliance concerns

During the consent‑agenda review, a trustee raised concerns about DAO Consulting LLC’s proposed work for the district and whether the consultant’s materials comply with Governor Mike Kehoe’s Executive Order 25‑18.

A trustee noted that Tina Howell, the consultant proposed to provide training, is based in Virginia and asked whether the training content and procurement would put the district at odds with guidance from the state. “Have we vetted Miss Howell’s training to be compliant with Governor Kehoe’s executive order?” the trustee asked, citing Executive Order 25‑18 and guidance from DESE.

Administration replied that materials are normally provided in advance and offered to produce the requested documentation for the board’s review. “I’m happy to request the material…Typically, we have the material ahead of time. I’m happy to do that,” administration said, and offered to bring the item back at the board’s March meeting.

Trustee Riley (speaker at the meeting) moved to table consent agenda item 4B so the board could thoroughly vet the materials for compliance; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. The item will return to the regular agenda after administration provides the requested documents for review.

Why it matters: trustees expressed that inadvertent approval of outside trainings that conflict with state executive orders can expose the district to political scrutiny or funding risk, and asked for a clear compliance check before the board takes a final vote.

Next step: Administration will supply consultant materials and documentation of content to the board to demonstrate compliance with Executive Order 25‑18 and DESE guidance; the item is scheduled to be revisited at the March board meeting.