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Board approves purchase of 250 Chromebooks with $413-per-unit cap amid market volatility
Summary
The Wilmot UHS Board approved a purchase of 250 Chromebooks and four‑year warranties, adding a not‑to‑exceed cap of $413 per device after hearing staff warn of rapid price increases.
Board members authorized a purchase of 250 Chromebooks and four‑year warranties for incoming students and set a not‑to‑exceed cap of $413 per device after a presentation by Director of Instructional Technology Nick Heisley.
Heisley told the board he had a quote for $300 per device but reported that market pricing had shifted rapidly. "As of an hour ago... it's gone up to $413 a device," Heisley said, adding that prices could continue to rise and that some alerts showed higher figures if the district delayed. He recommended securing the devices now to avoid larger increases.
Board discussion focused on whether to authorize immediate purchase, how to structure a not‑to‑exceed authorization, and the district’s budget timing. Heisley explained the procurement strategy: the purchase would be processed now with payment terms to fall in the 2025–26 fiscal year and the district generally intends to use the devices for four years, then sell them to recoup funds.
A motion to approve the 2025 Chromebooks and warranty purchase as presented, with an amendment that the per‑device price not exceed $413, passed by voice vote. The board directed staff to proceed and to return with an updated price if the $300 option could not be secured.
The board did not disclose vendor names during the public discussion beyond references to state contract and inventory counts.
Next steps include finalizing the purchase order and arranging payment terms.
