Board approves pet-therapy MOU, Hartford design-fee increase and printing-contract expansion

At its April 8 meeting the Chandler Unified Governing Board approved three action items covering a district partnership and procurement increases.

Gabriel’s Angels MOU: Dr. Fletcher presented a memorandum of understanding between the district and Gabriel’s Angels effective July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027. The organization will provide registered pet-therapy teams for in-person visits under three programs: "Pause for resilience" (semester-long small-group visits), an ABC reading-support program for early grades and community support visits during times of need. Board members praised the program’s popularity and therapeutic benefits and approved the MOU by unanimous voice vote.

Hartford Elementary design fees: Facilities staff requested a $400,000 increase to an existing cooperative contract (GPA contract 23-18PD-09) to cover additional design services that arise as schematic design progresses, including a traffic-impact study, on-site civil design, energy-performance and food-service/kitchen consulting, special inspections and geotechnical testing. Staff explained some services are required by city permitting and become better defined as design advances; the board approved the increase unanimously.

Printing and signage contract: The board approved a $75,499 increase (to a total estimated $300,000) for state contract 33-23-27 to cover district purchases of screen printing, banners, vehicle/door wraps, trophies and signage. Staff clarified boosters still purchase many consumable items, while capital or long-lived items must route through district procurement. The motion passed unanimously.

What’s next: Staff will implement the Gabriel’s Angels visits per parental permission processes, proceed with Hartford design work and continue procurement oversight for the expanded state contract.