Insurance Certificates and Cooperative Contracts: What Members Should Know
by Contracts Team
Mohave’s solicitations require awarded vendors to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming Mohave Educational Services Cooperative, Inc. as the certificate holder prior to contract execution. This requirement allows Mohave to confirm that vendors meet the baseline insurance coverages established in the solicitation and contract, including general liability, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation, among others.
While Mohave verifies insurance at the contract level, individual members remain responsible for protecting their own districts at the point of purchase. When placing an order under a Mohave cooperative contract, members should obtain a COI directly from the vendor listing their agency as the certificate holder, and, if required by local policy, as an additional insured. Any additional insurance requirements or coverage expectations should be communicated between the member and vendor during the purchasing process. Members are encouraged to consult with their agency’s risk management team or legal counsel to determine appropriate insurance requirements.
The image below reflects Mohave’s standard solicitation language regarding insurance. If you have any questions regarding COI’s on a Mohave contract, please reach out to us at contracts@mesc.org.
Partnering in Produce: Insights from Yuma
by ASPIN Team
Mohave ASPIN joined industry partners and child nutrition professionals from Marana, Gilbert, and Crane on a tour of Yuma’s vibrant agricultural landscape, offering up a rare, up-close look at the incredible effort behind the greens that make their way to our students’ plates. From the fields to the processing lines, the experience revealed just how much planning, coordination, and innovation goes into every head of romaine and every handful of baby greens.
The day began with a guided field tour, where we learned about the extensive planning required to bring lettuce and leafy greens to market. Many of us were surprised by the sheer complexity of the process—from soil preparation and planting schedules to harvest timing and food safety protocols. Seeing these fields in person gave us a new appreciation for the precision and care that define Arizona farming operations.
Our visit continued with a tour of the Taylor Farms processing plant, where the staff welcomed us with enthusiasm and a willingness to answer every question. One of the highlights was watching the machinery in action—specialized equipment portioning red cabbage, carrots, and lettuce to create the perfectly balanced salad mixes we see in our schools. Observing this level of automation and accuracy was both fascinating and impressive.
It was enlightening to be part of this experience and to walk away with a deeper understanding of the people, processes, and passion behind our fresh local produce. Mohave ASPIN looks forward to further collaboration with stakeholders as we support our members’ produce requirements.
Photos for Yuma: Taylor Farms Visit
(Click to enlarge)Canyon State Bus Sales 2026 Ride & Drive Event
by Contracts Team
Mohave recently visited contracted vendor Canyon State Bus Sales during their 2026 Ride & Drive event, which brought together school district transportation staff and industry partners from across Arizona. Canyon State hosted a day of hands-on demonstrations, vendor exhibits, and training sessions designed to support districts in maintaining safe, reliable bus fleets while staying informed on evolving technology and best practices.
As part of the event, bus manufacturers led a practical training focused on modern bus systems, diagnostics, and software updates that help districts better understand and support their vehicles. With attendees traveling from across the state, including Northern and Southern Arizona, the event highlighted Canyon State’s commitment to education, collaboration, and ongoing support for Mohave members.
Events like the 2026 Ride & Drive demonstrate the added value available to Mohave members beyond contract award. We appreciate our vendor partners who provide training, demonstrations, and educational opportunities in support of agencies across Arizona. Mohave welcomes the opportunity to share how contracted partners are delivering continued value to members statewide.