Petersburg City Public Schools on Aug. 20 approved two one‑time technology purchases to address student and staff device needs for the 2025‑26 school year.

The board authorized spending up to $116,325 to buy 300 Lenovo 100e Gen 4 Chromebooks intended for Petersburg High School student inventory. Superintendent staff explained the request: devices acquired earlier under the SIG grant are designated for grades 3–8, so the high school requires a separate purchase to ensure students in grades 9–12 have equitable access.

The board also authorized a separate purchase of 150 staff laptops, not to exceed $118,605, to replace devices originally purchased with ESSER/COVID funds that have reached end of life. Technology staff told the board these replacements are necessary to maintain instructional and operational efficiency.

Both purchases will be made using the Sourcewell Technology Products and Solutions contract (contract number 121923‑SHI) with SHI International Corporation as the vendor. The Chromebook purchase is proposed to be funded with state funds through the Virginia Public School Authority; the staff laptop purchase is from the district's local technology budget. The projected completion date for both acquisitions is Sept. 30, 2025.

Board members asked whether SIG-funded devices were being redeployed; technology staff clarified the SIG devices are allocated for K–8 and cannot be shifted to cover high school needs. The board voted and approved both purchases.

Speakers: Ms. Yates (technology staff) presented procurement rationale and clarified SIG coverage; superintendent's recommendation was carried by motion.

Implementation: Technology will schedule deployment at Petersburg High School and roll replacements to staff; vendor delivery timelines align with a Sept. 30 completion target.