Board approves occupational therapy and psychological contracts; trustees press for in‑person services

The Hot Springs County School District No. 1 board approved two professional services contracts for the 2026–27 school year: an occupational therapy services bid awarded to Trilogy Therapy and a psychological/behavioral services contract awarded to Peak Behavioral Services. Both motions passed by voice vote.

Trustees asked administration whether other bids were solicited and whether services would be delivered in person or virtually. District staff responded that these specialized services are often outsourced statewide because local providers are scarce. For the OT contract, administrators said the majority of services will be delivered virtually, with some in‑person visits. For the psychological contract, trustees noted the contract lists an address in Cheyenne, and administrators said much of the work is handled out of a regional office (Worland or Greybull branch) while statewide coverage is maintained.

Several trustees emphasized the educational benefit of in‑person services when possible. One trustee said, “my preference would always be to have an on‑site therapist to provide, skilled services,” and others asked whether travel would be required or whether telehealth arrangements would suffice.

Both contracts were approved after discussion; trustees recorded their concerns and requested that administrators pursue in‑person options when feasible and clarify local availability in future solicitations.