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Ozark board approves YellowDog Networks bid for core network equipment, district to receive about 60% E‑Rate discount
Summary
Board approved a roughly $260,000 network equipment purchase from YellowDog Networks; district staff said about 60% will be covered through the federal E‑Rate program, reducing the district’s net cost.
The Ozark R‑VI School Board approved awarding a network equipment contract to YellowDog Networks for an equipment package quoted at roughly $260,000; district staff said the purchase will be filed through the federal E‑Rate reimbursement process and is expected to receive a 60% discount.
A district technology presenter reviewed the procurement process: the district issued an RFP and evaluated four bids (YellowDog Networks, Provision Network, CDW-G and Howard) using price, capacity to meet service levels, company experience, references and project delivery. The presenter said YellowDog was both the low-priced and best-qualified bidder after the panel’s scoring.
“As part of the E‑Rate process, where Ozark sits with their current free and reduced lunch rate, we receive 60% reimbursement,” the presenter said. The presenter explained the district will elect the SPI (service provider invoice) method so the discount is applied up front rather than paid and reimbursed later. District staff estimated the district’s out-of-pocket cost after the E‑Rate discount would be about $110,000.
Board member James moved to approve the E‑Rate bid; Board member Dustin seconded. The board voted in favor; the presenter said the district will sign the vendor contract and submit the required Form 471 to obtain final E‑Rate approval.
The presenter noted some line items (for example, redundant power supplies) may not be E‑Rate eligible and said the district expects to participate annually in equipment procurement under the E‑Rate process.
