Board approves revised contract, policy changes and $36,731 gym refinishing

The East Otero School District No. R1 board approved several business items in new business, including a revised contract with a vendor that will continue to provide financial and select HR services, first readings of payroll and payout policy changes, and a contract to refinish the intermediate school gym floor for $36,731.50.

The contract: Trustees moved and voted to approve a revised contract with the vendor referenced in the transcript as "abacus" (also spelled "Avocus" in places). The presenter said the additional duties cover the financial portion of HR work (payroll accuracy, tax compliance) while the district will retain in‑house responsibility for other HR functions. The presenter told the board the contract term covers the current school year and that renewal for next year will be considered during the budgeting process.

Policy changes: On first reading, the board approved revised policy GDD (payout month change from July to June so payouts align with the fiscal year) and DKA (move to one monthly payroll instead of two) intended to streamline payroll processing. Trustees asked clarifying questions about which staff had previously received split pay; staff said exceptions were mainly for extra‑duty payments, not paras.

Facilities: The board approved refinishing the intermediate school gym floor in the amount of $36,731.50. Staff said the gym is three years overdue for refinishing and that the vendor who did the high school work (named in the transcript) will likely perform this job during the Christmas holiday to avoid student disruption.

Votes and next steps: Motions on these items were moved, seconded and passed on roll call. Staff said they will bring contract renewal options and further payroll‑implementation details to the board during the budget cycle.