District plans $175K Chromebook refresh for grades 3 to 5 in next budget

The RSU 22 Budget Meeting held on April 3, 2025, focused on key technology upgrades and budget allocations for the upcoming school year. A significant topic of discussion was the planned refresh of Chromebooks for grades 3 through 5, which is projected to cost approximately $175,000. These devices, originally funded through COVID relief money, are expected to last an additional year, as they are primarily used in school and not taken home by students.

During the meeting, officials discussed the funding strategy for these technology projects. It was noted that while there is a technology reserve fund, it is insufficient to cover all expenses. The consensus was to allocate a portion of the costs from the general budget while utilizing reserve funds to help offset the remaining expenses. This approach aims to balance the financial responsibilities between student-based and teacher-based technology needs.

Another point of discussion was the potential replacement of projectors and sound systems in the district's middle schools. The cost for these upgrades was estimated at around $35,000 for one school, raising concerns about equity in funding between the two schools. Officials expressed a desire to avoid alternating funding between schools each year, advocating for simultaneous upgrades to ensure both schools receive equal support.

The meeting also touched on the transition from MacBooks to Chromebooks for students in grades 7 and 8, with a focus on maintaining MacBooks for staff due to their higher service needs. The potential cost savings of switching to Chromebooks for staff were acknowledged, but it was determined that MacBooks would better meet the educational requirements of teachers.

Lastly, the discussion included plans to update the district's app to enhance user experience. While this update is projected for the fiscal year 2026, it may involve onboarding fees if a new platform is chosen. The licensing costs are expected to remain similar to current expenses, pending further discussions with the community relations committee.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to improving technology resources while navigating budget constraints and ensuring equitable access across schools. Further discussions and decisions will be necessary as the district moves forward with these initiatives.