School Board approves $526K Chromebook purchase from Travera for device replacement

The Sun Prairie Area School District is set to enhance its technology resources with a significant investment in new Chromebooks, following a recent school board meeting. Dr. Kurt Mold presented a recommendation for the purchase of 2,000 Chromebooks, which will replace aging devices primarily used by third to fifth graders. This initiative aligns with the district's commitment to operational and educational excellence, ensuring that every student has access to essential learning tools.

The decision to purchase rather than lease the devices marks the fourth consecutive year of direct purchasing, resulting in substantial savings on lease interest. This year, the district received competitive bids, ultimately selecting a new vendor, Trafera, which offered a price of less than $200 per unit—an unprecedented low for the district. The total cost for the Chromebooks, including management licenses and an extended warranty, is projected at $526,000, with funding sourced from designated technology funds.

The new warranty includes unlimited accidental damage protection and theft coverage for up to 40 devices, enhancing the district's ability to maintain its technology fleet. This proactive approach not only addresses current needs but also anticipates potential future costs related to technology procurement.

Dr. Mold emphasized the importance of this investment in supporting the district's one-to-one device initiative, which assigns a device to every student. The new Chromebooks will be integral to the educational experience, allowing students to engage with a variety of digital tools and resources.

As the district moves forward with this purchase, it aims to ensure that students have reliable access to technology, fostering an environment conducive to collaborative learning and innovation. The school board's approval of this recommendation will be a crucial step in maintaining the district's commitment to providing high-quality educational resources.