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Manatee County School District Plans $66.7M for IT in 5-Year Plan

The district’s 2024-29 technology plan outlines funds for various projects, including replacing operating systems, switches, routers, desktops and more.

A student with a school book. A virtual display with data symbols is before the student.
The School District of Manatee County is requesting $66.7 million for IT-related projects in its approved Fiscal Year 2024-29 District Technology Plan.

The approved FY 24-29 District Technology Plan aligns with the district’s goals, outlining the framework for maintaining and supporting existing and new technologies, along with planned IT initiatives.

The goals in the plan are:
  • One: Maintain a technology refresh plan that ensures equitable resources for all students and staff, including an annual computer refresh plan, a sustainable digital device platform and an inclusive translation service for everyone, regardless of language, disability or location
  • Two: Sustain a modern communication system for all schools, integrating with the Student Information System to deliver voice messages, texts, emails and notifications
  • Three: Provide business intelligence dashboards for efficient student and district data reporting, including transportation, postsecondary metrics and ongoing dashboards for academics, teacher performance, finance, HR and operations
  • Four: Enhance staff productivity with cost-effective technology solutions, including an integrated classroom management tool, AI support, digitizing inactive student records by December 2026, maintaining active records and deploying efficient operating systems
  • Five: Ensure secure, seamless connectivity by enhancing the parent portal, expanding fiber infrastructure, upgrading networks and supporting e-learning, cloud readiness, cabling upgrades and cybersecurity
Key future purchases will include multiple IT-related upgrades and refreshes, such as:
  • Operating systems
  • Desktop devices
  • AI-integrated tools
  • Routers and switches
  • Mobile devices
More information about the District Technology Plan can be found online.
Cristina Carter is a Tallahassee-based staff writer. She has a bachelor's degree in English literature and a master's degree in international affairs, both from Florida State University.