Board approves final payments for lead free water fountains installation across district

The ERCSD Board of Education meeting held on March 25, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the completion of water fountain installations and upcoming cafeteria upgrades across district schools.

During the meeting, Matt provided an update on the water fountains, which have now been installed in all buildings. He noted that while the fountains are functioning, some issues have arisen due to heavy student usage, leading to leaks that will need to be addressed. The district has successfully reduced the number of traditional water coolers by 90%, replacing them with 87 lead-free drinking fountains that meet safety standards.

The discussion also included the financial aspects of the project. Board approval was sought for payments to vendors for work completed outside the original scope. Matt explained that the final billing process involves coordination with the construction manager and architects to ensure accurate invoicing. The board was informed that the costs remain within the previously approved budget.

In addition to the water fountains, the board discussed plans for upgrading secondary cafeterias. The upgrades will primarily involve purchasing materials and supplies, with no major construction required. The timeline for these projects will depend on material lead times, and the district aims to enhance the cafeteria environments for students.

Lastly, the board confirmed that the instructional calendar for the upcoming year aligns closely with those of other districts in the county, ensuring consistency across educational schedules.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve items on the agenda, reflecting the board's commitment to improving facilities and resources for students.