Hickman Mills board approves E-rate-backed network upgrades, district to cover 15% of costs

Dr. Smith presented a package of E-rate-eligible technology projects and funding mechanics to the board and recommended board authorization for contracts needed in the 2026 funding year. "This year we have transitioned to SPY in which the district will cover 15% of that cost and then the e-rate program covers 85%," Dr. Smith said, explaining the district's shift to the direct-billed E-rate model for 2026 projects.

Approved projects and approximate totals reported by administration:

- Network cabling and infrastructure: total ~$103,815; E-rate share ~$88,243; district share ~$15,572.31.

- Materials, equipment, firewall, switches and wireless access points (in-house install): total ~$73,125; E-rate share ~$62,150.49; district share ~$10,968.79.

- Managed internal broadband and consolidation of the administration building to the district network: total ~$60,000; E-rate share ~$51,000; district share ~$9,000.

- Switches and licensing: total ~$3,600; E-rate share ~$3,060; district share ~$540.

Board members asked about timing and implementation; presenters said technology and packing logistics will begin in late May and early June for affected buildings and that upgrades are critical to support testing and instructional systems. Each agreement was moved, seconded and approved by roll call during the meeting.

The approvals give administration the authority to enter the E-rate award agreements and proceed with purchases and internal work needed to update the district's network and hardware.