Two law firms present proposals; superintendent clarifies selection is administrative
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Summary
Representatives from Buckley Richardson and Robinson & Cole presented to the Legislative & Contracts subcommittee after the superintendent’s office said the firm selection is an administrative decision, not a subcommittee vote. Each firm highlighted school‑law experience, local ties, and proposed fees or alternative arrangements.
The Legislative & Contracts subcommittee heard presentations from two law firms shortlisted to provide legal services to Springfield Public Schools.
Superintendent clarified that selection of a legal‑services provider is under superintendent purview and not a subcommittee vote. Attorney Jeremy Saint Laurent summarized the RFQ process and said the district relied on the Massachusetts Association of School Committees list to identify firms with school‑law experience; two firms completed the quote stage and were invited to present: Buckley Richardson and Robinson & Cole.
A Buckley Richardson representative described a 14‑year relationship with the district, litigation and investigation work (including Office for Civil Rights matters and a First Circuit appeal victory), local community ties and a low rate tied to the firm’s commitment to Springfield. Robinson & Cole attorney Kate Dionne described a practice focused on education law, experience with Title IX and disability cases, contract and FERPA/COPPA compliance, and proposed blended rates and alternative fee arrangements; the firm emphasized a single point of contact and willingness to provide proactive training to help prevent legal problems.
The presentations were informational; the superintendent’s office will use the RFQ materials and the firms’ proposals in making an administrative decision and will bring a recommendation to the school committee as required by district procurement rules.