The McDowell County Schools Board unanimously approved a one-year contract to purchase the Star Reader universal screener for $60,780.14, the superintendent told the board.

Superintendent Dr. Greer said the tool is required to run the district's MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) process and to conduct testing for exceptional-children services. He told board members that the curriculum committee, chaired by Mr. Suttles, had reviewed the options and recommended Star Reader because it is the district's current screener and offers negotiated pricing as a one-year contract.

"We have selected and brought before the committee the Star Reader program," Dr. Greer said. "Anytime we reach a threshold that surpasses $50,000 we need to bring that to the board." Mr. Suttles moved to adopt the recommendation and Mr. Shuford seconded; with no further discussion the motion carried unanimously.

Board members said the one-year term keeps the district flexible for future negotiations. The board packet includes contract documentation and the curriculum committee's review; the superintendent said the district prefers one-year agreements to retain negotiating leverage.

The board did not attach conditions to the vote; no dissenting votes were recorded. The district will move forward with procurement and implementation steps outlined in the board packet.