Farmington Schools approve structured cabling upgrades for elementary and high schools

The Farmington Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting on February 11, 2025, focusing on key updates regarding technology infrastructure and future planning. The meeting began with a request for the finance and facilities committee to prioritize certain agenda topics for upcoming discussions.

One of the main highlights was a presentation by Amy Sassina from Plant Moran and Wes Prescott, the district's technology director, regarding a structured cabling proposal essential for upgrading the district's technology systems. The current cabling, some of which is over 20 years old, is critical for internet connectivity and overall technological stability in the schools.

The proposal includes replacing outdated cabling in all elementary schools, the STEAM Academy, Farmington Central High School, and the Transportation and Facilities buildings. The district received five bids for the project, ultimately recommending CIT, a vendor already familiar with the district's needs. The work is scheduled to take place over the summer to minimize disruption to summer programming, with some tasks extending into the school year for the Transportation and Facilities buildings.

The new cabling will consist of Category 6 data cables, which are the current standard, replacing the older Category 5 and 5e cables. Additionally, fiber optics between wiring closets will be updated, enhancing the district's capacity to support new technologies and increased bandwidth demands.

The board discussed the financial implications of the project, noting that the district would utilize E-rate funding to recover 50% of the costs. This strategic approach allows the district to maximize funding opportunities while ensuring that the necessary upgrades are made in a timely manner.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving its technological infrastructure, with plans for further upgrades in secondary buildings scheduled for the following summer. The board's proactive measures aim to enhance educational resources and ensure that the district remains equipped to meet future technological demands.