FASTfacts - December 9, 2025 (Vol. 21, Issue 10)

Gallagher Benefit Services Remains as Agent and Consultant

The company that's handled MCPS' self-insured benefits program for years will remain under contract for the next three years at least.

This is part of the agreement passed 4-1 by School Board members at tonight's meeting. 

Gallagher Benefit Services manages the entire insurance process for the district's workforce. Gallagher will also help with a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Vision Insurance required by School Board policy. This will guarantee the School Board maintains its competitive position in the marketplace for a fee not to exceed $15,000. 

While the RFP process is funded through the Internal Service Fund, Gallagher's agent fees are paid via commission from the insurance carriers. 

This approval also provides compliance with state and district requirements, ensures the self-funded program maintains integrity, and enhances enrollment support and education. 

The new contract runs January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2028, and is renewable for up to three additional years with annual expenditures not to exceed $490,000. 

Raises Approved for Administrators

Employees not represented by a union or Collective Bargaining Agreement received 2% pay raises in the latest round of School Board action.

With full support from School Board members this evening, the salary increase follows an agreement already Board approved with the Marion Education Association (MEA) and another one to be ratified by Marion Education Support Professionals (MESP). 

Non-represented employees include principals, assistant principals, and many Central Office administrative personnel. This round of raises adds $717,714 to the annual budget. 

The only agreement outstanding at this time is one with the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT). 

New Vehicle Purchases Total Nearly $1 Million

Fifteen new vehicles will soon be ordered for multiple departments following unanimous support from School Board members. Combined sticker price? Almost $1 million. 

The vehicles will be used by employees in the Maintenance Department including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, HVAC workers, and Special Services personnel in their daily duties. These vehicles replace 13 used vehicles purchased as far back as 1999 including some with over 182,000 miles on them. 

The Central Warehouse will also receive a new Ford F-550 box truck valued at $105,750 to replace a 2002 model with more than 325,000 miles on it. 

Finally, the Food and Nutrition Services Department will order a Ford F-650 refrigerated box truck for its Farm-To-Table food program. 

All vehicles utilized the Florida Sheriff's Association to achieve the lowest pricing. 

2026 Sunshine State Scholars Saleth Fernandez Castro (DHS) and Delaney Peterson (BHS) hold their official certificates following School Board recognition. Both juniors will represent MCPS at the state level next year for their STEM accomplishments, community involvement, and commitment to academic excellence.