ACSD Board of Directors approves laptop purchase for 1:1 Initiative

by Brianne Eilers

The Allamakee  Community School District Board of Directors met for a brief special meeting Monday, March 23 to discuss a few different issues. The Board heard a presentation from Technology Director Shawn Gordon regarding his recommendations for purchasing new laptops for staff and students for the 1:1 Initiative.
The Board agreed with Gordon's recommendation to purchase computers from Sterling Computers Corporation, as well as laptop bags, four mobile computing cards - three for the sixth grade classrooms and one for the Project Lead the Way classes, mini display port to VGA cords and deployment and management solutions for a total price of $710,879.46. District Superintendent Dave Herold noted that the funding for the purchase would come out of the district's PPEL and General funding.
Board member Patty Nordheim asked Gordon if the laptops would come equipped with a number pad, and he noted that they did not, but that one could be hooked up to the machine for those teachers who would like one. The numeric keypads could also be purchased for a fairly minimal cost.
The Board also approved several additional summer projects that include repairs to the Waterville bus barn roof, replacement of several uni-vents, and replacing several doors and windows throughout district buildings. The Board also accepted the resignation of Sarah Schuknecht from her special education teaching position at Waterville Elementary, effective at the end of this school year. Prior to adjournment, the Allamakee Community  School District offered its negotiation proposal to members of the Allamakee Community Education Association.