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District outlines $1.6M network switch plan using E‑rate funds; board to review bids March 18
Summary
Technology staff proposed upgrading network switches and UPS units across the district, presenting a conceptual $1.6M category‑two scope to be phased using Year 5 E‑rate funds and future cycles. Board discussed procurement via master contracts, cooling/infrastructure needs and timing; contracts expected for March 18 approval.
The district's technology director proposed a multi‑year plan to upgrade campus network switches, backup UPS units and internet bandwidth using E‑rate Category Two funding and future E‑rate cycles.
Director of Technology Jenie Panlor said the district could replace up to 209 switches (HP Aruba or equivalent) and up to 90 UPS units to support modern access points, surveillance cameras, thermostats and classroom devices. A conceptual price example presented for the switch scope was about $1.6 million; Year 5 E‑rate funds (~$453,174 award) could be used to purchase an initial tranche with additional equipment financed or phased over the next E‑rate cycle. Panlor described three procurement/payment options: (1) pay in full (not recommended because it foregoes E‑rate discounts), (2) use only this year's funds and phase purchases, or (3) enter a contract now and apply future E‑rate awards with interest‑free installments.
Board members asked about required cooling/ventilation for MDFs/IDFs, salvageability of existing UPS batteries (likely not salvageable), whether professional services/install are E‑rate eligible (some are), and whether UPS replacement should be phased or done concurrently with switches. Trustees noted bond funds could cover related infrastructure work (HVAC/cooling) and emphasized vendor value on master contract lists (SPUR/USAC master contracts) to ensure competitive pricing.
Staff said evaluations and vendor Q&A are underway and formal contracts were expected for board review on March 18.
Next steps: staff to return with evaluation results, formal contracts and financing recommendations for board action.
