Committee approves RFQ for high school construction architect; appoints building and evaluation committee representatives

The Smithfield School Committee voted Jan. 2 to approve a request for qualifications (RFQ) seeking an architect for Stage 2 and emergency projects at Smithfield High School and appointed school committee members to required project committees.

Administrators said the RFQ covers Stage 2 work and emergency projects — including floor replacement in culinary and the ISC room — while an owner's project manager (OPM) handles Stage 1. The committee will present the RFQ to the town council and proceed with a tight timeline to advertise widely and accept bids.

Under Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) requirements, the committee also appointed two school committee members to the building committee, a standing group that will provide recommendations alongside the school committee and town council during construction. Salah had previously volunteered; another committee member also offered to serve and the two were appointed by motion and voice vote.

Separately, the committee appointed Ms. Pafford to serve on the short-term evaluation committee that will score architect applicants using a provided rubric. The administration emphasized meetings may occur outside daytime hours and that building committee sessions will be public and noticed.

A motion to approve the RFQ and to make the appointments was made, seconded and carried by voice vote.