Board approves K–8 science adoptions and bond‑funded device purchases; Apple order passes 4–1

The board approved instructional materials and technology purchases tied to the district’s bond and curriculum adoption schedule.

Curriculum: After a second reading, the board approved a 7‑year K–8 science adoption. The motion authorized purchase of Mystery Science (not to exceed $250,000) and Style Education (copyright 2026, not to exceed $800,000) as the district’s K–8 science programs; staff said final configurations and kit orders will be set with teachers and final quotes will be returned in May.

Technology: Using bond proceeds, the board authorized device purchases to refresh staff devices and acquire elementary student iPads and program lab equipment, with a not‑to‑exceed Apple purchase of $1,065,000. Director Weston registered a recorded no vote; the motion passed 4–1. Staff noted ongoing efforts to manage younger‑grade device use (Jamf Teacher controls) and the district’s four‑year device rotation schedule. The board also approved a separate purchase through OETC not to exceed $81,000 for cases and onboarding services to reduce overall per‑device costs and ease mass deployment.

Staff said final device counts, lab kits and program materials will be refined with teachers and vendors and that some line‑item pricing may be lower than the not‑to‑exceed figures once orders and scope are finalized.

What’s next: staff will finalize quotes and purchase orders and report back on deployment timelines and classroom implementation plans.