The Richland Bean Blossom School Board convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives, including the approval of a significant Chromebook replacement plan for Edgewood High School.

During the meeting, Rick Rowden presented a proposal for the acquisition of 900 new Lenovo Chromebooks, which are set to replace older models that have been deemed inefficient for current student needs. The board received four bids for the project, with Travera offering the most competitive price of $328,500. The new devices will feature enhanced specifications, including increased storage and a sturdier design, addressing previous concerns about the performance of the older Dell models.

Rowden emphasized the importance of these upgrades, noting that the new Chromebooks would better support the educational demands of students, particularly as reliance on internet-based resources continues to grow. The proposal also included a "white glove service," where the vendor will handle the enrollment and tagging of the devices, streamlining the setup process for the school.

In addition to the Chromebook acquisition, the board discussed the future of the existing devices. The older Chromebooks will not be sold but repurposed for use at the junior high school, helping to fill gaps for incoming sixth graders and ensuring that all students have access to necessary technology.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve the Chromebook purchase, marking a significant step forward in enhancing the technological resources available to students in the district. The board's decision reflects a commitment to improving educational tools and ensuring that all students are equipped for success in a digital learning environment.