North Newton board approves LED upgrades, culinary remodel and education-service renewals

The North Newton School Corporation board on June 3 approved several contracts and capital projects intended to complete long-planned facility upgrades and classroom services.

Superintendent Dr. Mike Raiser said the district is finishing a summer schedule of interior and exterior work and highlighted the culinary lab installation at the junior/senior high. The board approved Rose Lawn Electric’s phase 3 and 4 LED lighting work (estimated phase costs discussed at roughly $19,661 and $22,067) with the superintendent saying the upgrades will conclude the LED program for the largest energy consumers.

The board also approved purchase of culinary appliances — ranges, a reach-in refrigerator and a dishwasher — and awarded the culinary classroom remodel to Hen & Sons for $31,600. Dr. Raiser told the board the vendor was selected because it could deliver the full-service project and meet lead-time needs; he said most equipment includes standard warranties.

Members unanimously renewed the Mazzi Education contract, which Dr. Raiser said carries the same terms and pricing as the prior year and will be paid from Title I funds through June 30, 2027. Board members requested a list of other grants and services Mazzi might pursue for administrators to review.

Separately, the board approved a finance-support contract with consultant Courtney Parrish to assist in accounting cleanup and reconciling prior systems. The contract is structured at $120 per hour for on-site work, $100 per hour remote, and 70¢ per mile, capped at 12 hours per week through Dec. 31, 2026; the superintendent said the agreement will be finalized after attorney review.

The board voted on these items during its regular meeting; motions carried as presented.