Technology update: Northern Lehigh applied for E‑Rate cybersecurity pilot; new auditorium and paging systems complete

Northern Lehigh’s technology staff told the committee the district applied for a competitive federal E‑Rate pilot program that would fund cybersecurity solutions and that the high school recently received audio and paging upgrades.

Mr. Hill, speaking for technology, said the district submitted an application for a three‑year competitive program focused on cybersecurity tools including endpoint protection, monitoring, detection and response. "It’s a pilot program. It’ll be a 3 year program for, cybersecurity," Hill said, noting participation will be limited and not guaranteed.

Hill also reported the high‑school auditorium sound system installation is complete; the system was calibrated and sound‑absorbing panels were added to the walls. "I think it sounds I think it's a big, big improvement," he said, and said the district expects the upgraded system to positively affect upcoming musicals and performances.

On building communication systems, Hill summarized a separate project to replace the high‑school paging system. The district replaced older speakers and wiring, installed an IP‑based paging system, carried out building‑wide sound checks and trained staff on operation. Administration said the new system offers more expandability and flexibility because it connects over the district network.

No formal action was taken on the E‑Rate application during the committee meeting; Mr. Hill said the district will wait to learn whether it is selected for the pilot.