Board signs off on summer projects including firewall, switches and bookcases

Prospect Heights School District 23 on March 12 approved a multi-item summer work package and related technology procurements presented by district administration.

The Board authorized three technology procurements central to the district's network refresh: a three‑year FortiGate firewall license with Empist for $32,195; the purchase of Aruba switch hardware from Sentinel Technologies (total $173,390 as quoted); and a network switch support agreement with Empist for $29,210. The motion approved additional facilities work as well, including replacement of the MacArthur gymnasium accordion wall by H2I for $14,500 and perimeter bookcases for the Anne Sullivan library from Educational Environments for $30,415. "Motion to approve the Summer 2026 work..." the minutes record; the motion, made by Dr. Long and seconded by Mrs. Morrissey, passed unanimously.

Administration noted that several of these technology items are part of an E‑Rate‑eligible refresh and included vendor quotes and service agreements in the meeting packet. Vendors named in the packet included Sentinel Technologies, Empist, H2I Group, Frank Cooney (furniture) and Educational Environments. The Board vote authorizes administration to execute contracts and proceed with installations and license renewals necessary to support district networks, security and planned facilities work for summer 2026.

District IT staff will coordinate timing to minimize classroom disruption and will return to the Board with implementation schedules where required.