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In a long-range planning effort, the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD board of trustees held a discussion on improvements to the technology department Jan. 23.
This department focuses on providing student/professional devices, improving district security and managing district software licenses.
The Jan. 23 discussion was the final long-range planning presentation to the board of trustees, having had a discussion on a different department’s needs each month since September.
The details
Technology Director Steve Barnwell said student devices at campuses will need to be replaced over the next three years.
If no technology replacements are made at OG Wiederstein Elementary School, the capacity of devices for students would decrease from around 80% to around 26% by the 2027 school year. For Steele High School, this number would change from around 65% to around 6%.
Barnwell said if the district replaced all students' devices at elementary campuses, the projected total cost in 2027 would be $820,000.
Across all secondary campuses, including middle and high schools, the cost in 2027 would be around $2.5 million.
To support students, staff and facilities, the district would need approximately $6.27 million over the next three years invested in technology replacements, Barnwell said.
Moving forward
Chief Operating Officer JD Mosley said the district has paid for technology improvements over the last five years through assigned fund balance in each budget.
Due to funding challenges, approving assigned fund balance for upcoming budgets may not be feasible for the district, he said.
“We are already passing deficit budgets,” he said. “If we continue to do this with assigned fund balance, then it adds to that deficit.”
While no decision was made on future funding, the board will consider items mentioned alongside funding challenges from other departments that were presented during previous meetings.
Discussions will continue through the budget process, where the board of trustees will determine the best direction forward regarding supporting programs and students within the district.
