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MCPS tech-budget cut likely to slow device refreshes, officials warn
Summary
MCPS told the committee it requested $33.9 million for TechMod in FY27 but was approved for $16.9 million; staff said the reduction will affect device and infrastructure refresh cycles and noted global hardware price increases.
Kimberly Fields warned the committee that budget reductions for TechMod will constrain the district's ability to refresh devices and upgrade infrastructure.
"We did request 33,900,000. We were approved for 16,900,000," Fields said, explaining the gap and noting MCPS saved about $11 million going into the current fiscal year. She told the committee that the reduction will affect server and network updates, software acquisitions and support for career and technical education equipment.
Fields also said global hardware prices have risen sharply and that district priorities will focus on annual refresh cycles, cybersecurity and direct classroom support. Council members asked that MCPS flag long-term cost impacts and return-on-investment when seeking future funding increases.
