Oneida School District prepares for busy summer with technology upgrades and maintenance projects

The Oneida Pride Podcast's latest episode, aired on May 22, 2025, highlighted significant developments and upcoming projects within the Oneida Special School District in Tennessee. The discussions primarily focused on summer preparations, technology upgrades, and ongoing maintenance efforts.

During the episode, technology director Mac discussed the importance of utilizing the quieter summer months to implement crucial upgrades. He noted that last summer was particularly busy due to a complete network overhaul, which included changing internet service providers and reconfiguring devices across the district. This summer, the team plans to order and set up approximately 300 to 400 new devices, continuing their commitment to maintaining a five-year replacement cycle for technology.

Mac emphasized the collaborative efforts of his team, including summer help from students, which not only aids in the workload but also provides valuable work experience for the students. He expressed gratitude for the patience shown by teachers during the previous year's transition, acknowledging the challenges faced with new systems and devices.

In addition to technology updates, maintenance director Jason Terry outlined the extensive summer projects planned for the district. These include replacing aging bathroom partitions and installing new security doors. Terry highlighted the importance of maintaining the facilities, which are over 30 years old, and praised his team's dedication to keeping the buildings in excellent condition.

Dr. Jeanne Phillips, the director of schools, also joined the podcast to discuss the district's academic achievements and future goals. She noted the successful completion of the school year and the ongoing summer school program, which serves a significant number of students. Dr. Phillips emphasized the district's focus on professionalism and academic improvement as they prepare for the upcoming school year.

Overall, the podcast showcased the Oneida Special School District's proactive approach to enhancing both technology and facilities, ensuring a supportive environment for students and staff alike as they look forward to the next academic year.