**The big picture:** The Somerville Board of Education awarded professional service contracts for speech therapy and school psychologist services without competitive bidding. **Why it matters:** This highlights how public sector entities procure specialized talent, often relying on direct awards for critical roles, impacting staffing firm engagement and local labor markets. **Between the lines:** - Contracts were awarded pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-5a(1). - J & B Therapy, LLC received a contract for speech therapy at $98.50 per hour plus a 2% administrative fee. - Soliant Health, LLC was awarded a contract for school psychologist services. **Staffing & HR impact:** Staffing firms specializing in education and healthcare can find opportunities in public sector contracts, though non-competitive bidding may limit broader market access. Compliance with state procurement laws is crucial for both the board and awarded vendors. **The bottom line:** Direct awards for specialized school services underscore ongoing demand for contingent healthcare and education professionals.