Title and Board Action Requested
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Approve the purchase of 2,819 student laptop devices and 100 Mobile Charging Carts and authorize the issuance of a purchase orders to approved contract vendors for an estimated spending of $1,830,662.50.
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Executive Summary
The Director of Technology and Information Services, on behalf of the Superintendent of Schools, hereby requests the Board approve the proposed purchase of 2,819 Student Laptop Devices from United Data Technology for $1,656,162.50 and 100 Mobile Charging Carts from Howard Technology for $174,500.00 to ensure district-wide compliance with Windows 11 system requirements ahead of Microsoft's support deadlines, for an estimated cost of $1,830,662.50.
Microsoft has announced the end of support for Windows 10 effective October 14, 2025. After this date, devices running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates or technical support, which could expose students and district networks to cybersecurity risks. A significant portion of our current student laptop inventory is more than seven (7) years old and does not meet the hardware requirements necessary to upgrade to Windows 11. Upgrading ensures students have access to a secure, modern learning environment and enables the district to maintain compliance with state mandated cybersecurity standards. Key benefits of this purchase include ensuring compliance with Windows 11 before the 2025 deadline, enhancement cybersecurity and device performance, ongoing support for digital learning initiatives and standardized testing platforms and minimizing future emergency procurement costs. The laptop carts will be used to securely store and charge the laptops, so they are ready and available for student use and testing purposes. Without this vital purchase the District will be unable to meet the testing requirements from FLDOE.
These purchases will be made utilizing the approved Computer and Technology Contract, Bid No. 24-204-16.
My Contact
Joseph Amato
Director of Technology and Information Services
(352) 797-7006 ext. 87102
2023-28 Strategic Focus Area
Priority 1: Student Success
Financial Impact
See attached budget sheet.
If expenditure is not currently budgeted, this will serve as the budget amendment when Board approved. If the agenda item includes the purchase of goods or services, the funds requested are an anticipated amount and may fluctuate depending on such factors as current market conditions, product availability, additional funding sources, and the needs of the District. Should the actual cost exceed the anticipated amount, the Board approves the additional cost, after review by the superintendent, but not in excess of the funds available in the site’s approved annual budget.