Board approves cybersecurity, network, CTE furniture and fire-alarm purchases for new facility and labs

The Midland Public Schools Board approved several facilities and technology purchases on Aug. 18 following recommendations from administration and the Finance, Facilities and Operations study committee. Administration recommended and the board approved a $77,740 purchase order to CyberForce Q of Plymouth, Michigan, for managed cybersecurity services to supplement district IT staff. The administration said pricing was secured through the State of Michigan extended purchasing program and that operating funds will pay the expense. The board approved a $57,310.05 purchase order to Vector Tech Group of Freeland, Michigan, for Ethernet switches, access points, configuration, installation and a post-installation site survey to provide wireless connectivity for the new Fast Ice Drive facility; capital improvement funds will pay this expense. Bids were solicited for CTE lab furniture installation at both high schools and administration recommended issuing a $166,500 purchase order to NEIS Collective of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to be paid from STEM grant funds. Administration said the specialized furniture will be installed in stages, with one lab installation scheduled over winter break and the other the following summer. Finally, administration recommended and the board approved a $60,516 purchase order to Summit Fire Protection of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, for a fire alarm system at the Fast Ice Drive building, funded from capital improvement funds. Motions to approve the purchases were made and seconded by board members; each motion passed by recorded voice vote with no opposition. Administrators said bids and pricing were obtained through state or cooperative purchasing agreements or via solicited bids; administration noted limited competition for specialized CTE furniture.