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School board approves E-Rate submission to replace network switches and access points
Summary
The board approved an E-Rate-funded technology refresh to buy roughly 75 access points and 14 switches; presenters said the district will receive a 40% E-Rate rebate, lowering the district's net cost from roughly $120,000 to about $72,000.
The Bettendorf Community School District board voted to approve an E-Rate submission that will fund part of a multi-year refresh of network hardware, district IT staff said.
An IT staff member identified as Ben explained the federal E-Rate program provides a five-year funding commitment based on enrollment and free-and-reduced-price percentages; the district qualifies for a 40% discount on eligible internal connections. "We get a five-year budget... we receive 40% funding which means we are responsible for 60% of the purchase," Ben said, describing the program and the district's planned purchases.
Ben told the board the proposed request would purchase 75 access points and 14 replacement switches this year as part of a refresh cycle; the selected vendor was the most cost-effective under the district's evaluation process. IT staff and the presenter said estimated costs before the rebate would have been about $120,000 and that the E-Rate discount reduces the district's net cost to roughly $72,000.
Board members asked about the selection process and the timing of future refreshes; the presenter said purchases are staged so the district will be largely up to date for several years after the current cycle. Board roll call recorded affirmative votes and the motion carried 7-0.
The board did not discuss detailed vendor contract language during the public motion but approved the E-Rate submission as presented.
