File: DJ/DJA - Purchasing/Purchasing Authority

NOTE: While Colorado school districts are not required by law to adopt a policy on this subject, CASB believes this sample contains the content/language that reflects "best practices." However, the district should consult with its own legal counsel to determine appropriate language that meets local circumstances and needs.

The Board's authority for the purchase of materials, equipment, supplies and services is extended to the superintendent through the detailed listing of such items compiled as part of the budget-making process and approved by the Board through its adoption of the annual operating budget.

Except in emergencies or for reasons of economy, the annual purchase of major pieces of equipment such as school buses shall be scheduled so that annual budgetary appropriations for capital purposes will be of similar size or will show a continuous trend without severe fluctuations.

The superintendent shall direct the purchase of such books, supplies, equipment and other materials as is required and permitted within the limits of the budget. The purchase of these items shall require no further Board approval except in those instances where Board policy requires certain purchases to be put to bid. However, any single, non-budgeted purchase or expenditure greater than $____________, shall require advance approval by the Board.

In order to receive the greatest value for each dollar expended, it shall be the policy of the school district to obtain comparative prices based on similar quality, to consider a balance between long-term quality and cost, and to purchase in quantity whenever possible and practical.

(Adoption date)

LEGAL REF.: C.R.S. 22-32-109(1)(b) (board required to adopt bidding procedures)

CROSS REF.: DJB*, Federal Procurement

DJE, Bidding Procedures

NOTE: If the district receives federal funds, the district is required by the federal Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) to adopt procurement procedures specific to purchases made with federal funds, in whole or in part. See, CASB sample policy DJB*, Federal Procurement and accompanying sample regulation, DJB*-R.

[Revised February 2017]