The April 9, 2025, FPS School Board Meeting in Wisconsin focused on several key topics related to technology infrastructure and data management within the district. The meeting began with a discussion on the five-year hardware replacement plan, highlighting the need for updates to aging systems, particularly the Wi-Fi infrastructure, which is expected to be revisited with vendors in the upcoming fall.

A significant portion of the meeting addressed record retention and data storage. Board members discussed the legal requirements for retaining records for seven years and the current status of email storage within the Google ecosystem. It was noted that the district is operating well within the storage limits set by Google, which has recently implemented changes to its services, including costs associated with different levels of Google access.

The conversation then shifted to the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Board members expressed caution regarding the use of AI tools, emphasizing the importance of student safety and data privacy. The discussion included the potential costs of AI tools and the need to prioritize spending on applications that ensure compliance with regulations such as COPPA and FERPA. It was mentioned that Google has introduced new AI features for educational use, which could enhance curriculum materials.

Additionally, the board explored opportunities for collaboration with other districts to share resources and costs, particularly in areas such as fiber infrastructure and cybersecurity. The FPS School District is part of a consortium that allows for shared connectivity resources, which enhances internet access and redundancy. The Wisconsin cybersecurity team was also highlighted as a valuable resource for addressing potential security incidents and improving overall system resilience.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to technology management, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure updates, data privacy, and collaborative efforts with other educational institutions. The board plans to continue evaluating these areas to ensure the district remains equipped to meet future challenges.