Data networks are a strategic asset on all our campuses — almost equivalent to water, heating, and electrical service. Modern schools do not operate effectively today without a fast, reliable network to support staff and student devices used in learning. Our deanery schools use well over 3,000 laptops, desktops, and tablets in instruction, including in student 1:1 programs.
The Tech Office has established data networking as a top priority for the deanery. We have made great progress upgrading our campus networks to enterprise-class equipment and service. This is a major initiative with a long way to go yet. The scope of this work includes:
- Physical infrastructure: power, cabling, racks, cooling
- Enterprise-grade core switching equipment
- Wireless network equipment
- Firewall devices with content filtering and malware software
- Business-class, fiber-based Internet service — with fault tolerance and high availability features
- Network management and security software to support operations
The Tech Office has led multiple network upgrades on our campuses, partially funded with Federal rebates under the E-Rate program. These upgrades have dramatically improved the reliability and capacity of our networks, with a positive impact in our classrooms.
Our long-range plan includes:
- Phase 1 — Upgrade all campuses from consumer-grade networks to enterprise-grade
- Phase 2 — Centralized network management across all campuses with full-time Tech Office staff and vendor support
- Phase 3 — Upgrade network security systems and establish a central Security Operations Center
Contact the Tech Office for help with your data networking projects.