Altoona Area SD approves junior‑high boiler replacement contract and several operations contracts

The Altoona Area School District board approved multiple business operations items, including awarding a contract to John Hall Incorporated to replace the junior high school boiler for a total cost not to exceed $540,000, to be funded from the district’s capital reserve.

A staff member explained the boiler’s condition and the timing for replacement: the junior high opened in 2008, and while the system is still functional, major components have shown early degradation and the district has previously replaced parts. "At this point, we're being proactive in that replacement," the staff member said, adding that the work should be completed prior to the 2026–27 heating season.

The clerk noted the district has sufficient capital reserve to cover the project and said the capital reserve balance is roughly $6,700,000, though some of those funds are already committed to other projects such as a window replacement. Board members asked follow‑up questions about contracting, cost containment, and which sites will host the district’s summer meals program.

Other business operations items the board approved included cooperative purchasing agreements, photography contracts (Jostens for secondary and Barksdale for elementary), a summer school food service program running June 10 through July 31, 2026 (closed July 3), and several student transportation contracts at a per‑mile reimbursement rate where noted.

The board approved items 9a–9h by voice vote. The administration noted the boiler contract includes contingency funds and will be paid from capital reserve; staff will return with project timelines and procurement documents as the project proceeds.