Lancaster ISD to pursue $1.1M E‑Rate-funded network upgrades; district share about $173K
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Summary
IT staff told the board the district was awarded just over $1.1 million in E‑Rate funding for 2026–27 network upgrades (category 2), with an estimated 85% discount and a district share of about $172,810.20; staff plan targeted upgrades informed by district-wide heat mapping and installation during school breaks if approved.
Jeffrey Williamson presented a proposal to the board on April 8 for E‑Rate-funded network upgrades for the 2026–27 year. Williamson said the district was awarded a little over $1.1 million and would receive an 85% discount for Category 2 services; the district’s estimated share is $172,810.20 to be budgeted in next year’s technology budget.
Williamson showed district heat-mapping that identified coverage gaps (for example, the tornado shelter at the middle school and first-floor areas with open windows at Pleasant Run) and said the work would prioritize access points, switches and other infrastructure. He proposed completing installation during major school breaks (Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks) if the board approves the funding and contract.
Trustees asked how the district secured increased E‑Rate funding; Williamson explained the funding relates to the snapshot and per-student calculations (the presentation referenced a student snapshot of 6,928 used in the funding calculation). Trustees encouraged staff to document the correlation between enrollment and E‑Rate funding and to include the recommended procurement timeline in the formal agenda item.
