People often ask what types of projects take place over the summer.  The summer, for me, is the best time for improvement projects, deploying new equipment, installations, and testing.

Here’s a look at what the IT Department will be completing before the new school year:

•  install classroom speaker system in Technology Learning Center (no more use of desktop speakers to try and fill the classroom)
• provide three teachers with iPads to demo over the summer
• remove 7 and 8 year old computers from inventory (sell in Rummage Sale or for scrap)
• deploy new desktop inventory (all desktop inventory will consist of Dell Optiplex 330, 360, or 380s models for greater efficiency)
• install virtualization kits grades pre, K, 1, 6, 7, and 8 for significant costs savings in energy and total cost of ownership… less physical towers and more workstations (yep, that’s really possible)
• install first unified wireless access system which will allow all wireless devices to “talk” to each other while performing better when roaming from one part of the building to the next
• install two new Smart Boards in second grade
• install four ultra short throw projectors in 109, 111, 116, and 122.
• Install classroom speakers in the same grades listed above
• Change out dry erase board in 122 with different size and match Smart Board
• Deploy two Elmo document cameras
• Update all desktop and laptops inventory with a new image (update software, security, etc.)
• Replace several printers with network printers where printing from more than one device is required.
• Most large CRT-style TVs and carts will be recylced
• Run CAT5e network cable to several classrooms and wireless access points

As you can see, a ton of “behind the scenes” work takes place over the summer to keep our technology program top-notch.  These improvements will help our students, faculty, and staff grow for not just today’s needs, but those of the future, too.