UCS approves wireless technology project

 

By Jeremy Carroll

C & G Staff Writer

     SHELBY TOWNSHIP — Utica Community Schools is going wireless.

     The UCS Board of Education approved a $1.2 million bid package at its Nov. 22 meeting to complete the district’s wireless infrastructure project. The package was unanimously approved.

     “This will greatly increase the flexibility of how and where we can use our computers,” board vice-president Kevin Lohmeier said.

     Director of Technology John Graham told the board the project is designed to provide seamless wireless networking technology in all instructional spaces within 46 district owned facilities.

     “This is one of the largest K-12 implementations in Michigan,” he said.

     The wireless infrastructure will provide UCS with the enterprise class equipment, processes and security approaches used in businesses today, while adapting them for the district’s unique environment, Graham said.

     The project will have nearly 900 wireless access points and more than 1,700 antennas that will be centrally managed and integrated with the server and storage project awarded earlier.

     “This allows for the use of a common network directory for user authentication and permissions, providing our students and staff with a consistent experience whether they are logging into the wireless or the hard wired network,” Graham said.

     The wireless system is one of the steps in the major technology initiative within the $141 million bond passage in 2003, and Graham said they are under budget for the project.

     Auburn Hills-based Analysts International won the bid over four other companies. They were the lowest bidder by nearly $200,000, and two companies bid just under $2 million.

     Board Treasurer Steve Truman thanked Graham and the district’s technology consultant for explaining the issues thoroughly.

     “We really trust what you folks do,” he said.

     “This is very exciting,” said Carol Klenow, board president. “This is a very, very big project. I’m excited to see it in action.”

     You can reach Jeremy Carroll at jcarroll@candgnews.com