The School Board approved the Guaranteed Maximum Price submitted by Wharton Smith, Inc. for the 2014 sales surtax facility renewal project at Gardendale Alternative Learning Center at the January 18, 2022 School Board meeting. The vendor for the District's two separate day schools chose not to renew their contract with the District in June 2022, which necessitated immediate and ongoing facility and technology modifications to bring these services in house at Gardendale. Because Wharton Smith, Inc. has been on site, they have been performing the needed facility modifications through sequential owner directed change orders including:

Since the separate day school at Gardendale has been operational for School Year 23, additional facility needs have become apparent. Wharton Smith, Inc. has submitted owner-directed change order #4 in an amount not to exceed $312,633 and increasing the contract time through August 1, 2023 for additional facility modifications at Gardendale including classroom door lockset modifications including card readers, additional interior painting, additional sensory and calming rooms, space modifications to create office and classroom spaces, classroom modifications, an exterior water fountain and additional security upgrades. The project is funded through previously budgeted capital for Gardendale, facility renewal capital and security capital. Administration and permitting costs have been previously budgeted.

Educational Technology is concurrently updating classroom technology for improved interaction and collaboration primarily through IDEA funding. Staff is also working with Student Services to address furniture, fixture and equipment needs utilizing previously budgeted funds. One outstanding (unfunded) item is development of outdoor play areas including a new playground. Minor HVAC system improvements are also proposed through Plant Operations & Maintenance trade contractors.

Board approval is required for purchase orders/change orders over $50,000. The standard change order form has been used which does not require legal review. 

Approve the owner-directed change order #4 submitted by Wharton, Smith, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $312,633 and increasing the contract time through August 1, 2023 under their continuing contract for construction management services for additional facility renovations required at Gardendale to support the separate day school program.