Board approves $906,525 fire‑safety contract and $365,591 gym‑floor replacement; affirms superintendent evaluation, closes personnel complaint

The North Clackamas School District board on Thursday approved two facilities contracts and completed routine governance business.

Chief of Operations Theresa F. Webster introduced a five‑year renewal to retain Convergent Technologies LLC for testing and maintenance of fire alarms, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers and elevator testing. Webster said the service is already funded and recommended renewal for continuity. The board approved the $906,525 contract by roll call, 6–0.

The board next approved a $365,591 contract with Sourcewell to demolish and replace the gym floor at Rex Putnam High School after facilities staff discovered water‑related buckling and progressive damage in multiple areas. Director of Facilities Mike Ware said contractors identified water intrusion and the district found that staff had used a pressure‑cleaning method that allowed water to seep into the gym floor structure. "Unfortunately, because it was a staff error, it was our own negligence that caused the issue," Webster said in response to a director's question; the district said it reviewed insurance options but deemed the damage the result of internal negligence.

Director Kemp moved and Director Olsen seconded the gym floor motion; the board approved it by a 6–0 roll call vote.

Separately, Director Kemp read a public statement on the board’s evaluation of Superintendent Dr. James, praising student‑centered leadership, fiscal stewardship and transparency while noting opportunities for stronger proactive communication and stakeholder engagement.

The board also reported that it had met in executive session on a personnel complaint, determined there was no policy violation, and voted to delegate the chair authority to respond in writing to the complainant. That motion passed 6–0.

All votes on contracts and the personnel motion were unanimous.