School Committee approves $210,000 contract for specialized special-education transportation after members seek details

The School Committee discussed and approved a contract award for EPIC Healthcare LLC for specialized special-education transportation after detailed questions from members about cost and scope.

Member Harding pulled item No. 225-275 and asked whether the projected award — a six-figure sum — was for a single student. Mr. Smith, responding for administration, said the award is budgeted for a single student requiring medical support and wheelchair-accessible transport from the start date (July 1) through the end of the school year, and that costs include extended-year services and specialized vehicle rates. "This award is budgeted out for one student needing medical attention throughout the life of that period from 07/01/25 until the end of the school year," Mr. Smith said.

Administration noted vendor scarcity for wheelchair vans and the need to avoid delays that would keep a student from receiving required services. Member Harding and others expressed concern about the size of the projected award; administration said the $210,000 figure is a projection that may not be fully incurred but is intended to cover costs already incurred plus contingency for the life of the award.

On a roll call the committee approved the contract (recorded vote in the minutes). Members said the contract underscores the need for a thorough budget review and closer scrutiny where large special-education transportation costs can arise.