The Jurupa Unified District has been recognized for generating $1 million in district funds by selling surplus equipment. Jurupa Unified is second only to Los Angeles Unified in the amount of dollars generated through surplus sales among California school districts.
GovDeals, which contracts with Jurupa Unified to sell off surplus equipment, honored JUSD at their warehouse this month. Dr. Trenton Hansen, JUSD Superintendent, said the recognition is a testament to the district’s long-standing commitment to using resources wisely, with students top of mind.
“This honor exemplifies how the significant contributions of our entire JUSD team can make a meaningful difference for the students and families we are entrusted to serve,” Dr. Hansen said. “Oftentimes, the fiscal duties of our district go unnoticed behind the scenes, but this recognition shows the powerful impact our Business Services and Purchasing teams have on the well-being of every student we serve. This project is a perfect example of our commitment to Organizational Stability and Fiscal Solvency, ensuring that we can provide the equipment, materials, and services needed to fulfill our promise of Learning Without Limits for all JUSD students.”
Paula Ford, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, added that the district’s efficient surplus sales process saves valuable staff time.
“When our district made the decision to move to GovDeals, we were focused on a dual objective. We considered the potential for increased revenue, with a focus on prioritizing operational efficiency. We sought a streamlined platform that would handle sales and payments, ultimately saving our staff valuable time and resources as well as taxpayer dollars,” she said.
"This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our warehouse team,” noted Jeffrey Lewis, Director of Purchasing for the Jurupa Unified School District. “Their commitment to serving our students and staff is truly appreciated.”
Like in a household, district equipment, furniture, technology, and even old buses, forklifts, and other items can become broken, obsolete, and unusable. Instead of discarding the items, school districts can sell the items at auction and use the funds generated for ongoing expenses. Selling surplus items instead of disposing of them also keeps thousands of items from going into landfills.
Most of the funds generated go back to the general fund, which covers the majority of everyday district expenses, including teacher salaries and classroom supplies. When the item sold is purchased through a designated fund (such as Nutrition Services equipment), that money goes back to that fund to support those specific services.
GovDeals collaborates with 2,191 school districts nationwide, including 270 in California, to assist them in selling their surplus inventory.
"One thing that stands out about the JUSD surplus process is the dedication and prioritization they have given to it,” said Steve Rochin, Account Manager for GovDeals. “Achieving this milestone requires the collective effort and buy-in from not just the warehouse but from all departments, ensuring everyone knows where to go when they need to surplus their property.”
