The following words and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall, for the purpose of this chapter, have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this section:
"Perishables" shall mean items which have a variable market price on which vendors are unable to submit a long-range price such as fruits and vegetables;
"Purchasing agent" shall mean the superintendent, or other individual or individuals designated by the school board or by the school boards acting jointly as its agent or agents to negotiate and make private contract or to purchase;
"School boards" shall mean the local governing boards of all school districts in the state, whether they act jointly or separately;
"Services" shall mean maintenance, operational and scholastic services utilized within and for the school district or school districts.