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Board approves E-rate-funded cable and optics upgrades for district network
Summary
The Royal Oak Schools Board authorized contracts to upgrade internal structured fiber and purchase network optics as part of an E-rate internal fiber upgrade, with AMCOM Inc. and Delta Network Services selected as vendors.
The Royal Oak Schools Board of Education on Jan. 9 authorized district staff to proceed with an E-rate-funded internal fiber cabling upgrade and a small purchase of network optics, measures district technology leaders said are needed to keep school networks current and support classroom instruction.
Superintendent and technology staff presented the project as part of the district’s E-rate program filings. Steve Melcher, the district’s director of technology, told the board the cabling work is scheduled for the summer and that fiber cabling typically has a 15-to-20-year lifespan; the board heard optics have a shorter, variable service life.
What the board approved - Contract with AMCOM Incorporated for structured fiber cabling upgrades in support of the E-rate internal fiber upgrade project, $165,000 with a district-managed contingency of $16,500. (Motion adopted by roll call.) - Purchase of network electronics (optics) from Delta Network Services for $4,422 with a $442 contingency. (Motion adopted by roll call.)
Why it matters: The two items were framed as part of a multi-year E-rate-funded effort to modernize the district’s internal connectivity so teachers and students can reliably use digital learning tools. Board members asked about lifespan and timing; Melcher said the cabling work is planned for summer 2025.
Board action: Both motions were approved by roll-call vote; staff may finalize contracts and move work into project planning and vendor coordination.
Ending: The projects will proceed under superintendent and technology staff direction; because funding comes through E-rate reimbursements, staff said procurement follows the E-rate program rules and district procurement policies.
