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Technology Department

The Florida Union Free School District takes pride in providing an educational environment that ensures students are continuous learners who can successfully embrace 21st century concepts and skills. Technology integration is achieved in accordance with the district’s approved outcomes, attributes, goals and is the products of district task forces and committee discussions. Through this mission, each Florida student is taught the necessary skills and concepts to become active, productive and positive contributing members of society.

The district’s Technology Plan provides detailed information about our technology goals, curriculum, resources, and infrastructure.

Use of the District’s Computer System and technology (DCST) is intended for
the purposes of education, school business, school operations, teaching, learning and duties. DCST includes the Internet (including online services and electronic communications); hardware, such as computers; software; networks; information systems; electronic/digital files; and storage of data/information. Please read the Employee/Student User Responsibility Guidelines.

Click here to read the Florida Union Free School District 2022-2025 Instructional Technology Plan.

The Florida Union Free School District Office of Instructional Services wants to hear your suggestions, concerns, and questions.  If you are experiencing any technical issues, email it.help@floridaufsd.org.  For security purposes, the IT Support email will only accept correspondence from school district-issued email accounts. You can also reach technology support at 845-651-3095 ext. 30015

If you are unable to access any forms or publications on this page, please contact Dana Castine at 845-651-3095 ext 30015 or dcastine@floridaufsd.org to receive the information in an alternative format.

The district has been awarded $490, 283 from the New York State Smart Schools Bond Funding program, which was initiated in 2014. The program provides financial support for enhancing educational technology and infrastructure in public schools.

  • Established in 2014 through a $2 billion bond act.
  • Supports educational technology and infrastructure upgrades in public schools.
  • Funds technology, equipment, internet/connectivity, security, and innovative learning spaces.
  • Aims to foster student engagement and achievement through modernized learning environments.
  • Current Florida UFSD-approved Instructional Technology Plan for 2022-2025 aligns with the strategic use of SSBA funds for the project.

Founded in 1995, ECC Technologies specializes in technology and communications consulting, leading broadband network development and Open Access fiber optics in New York State. Recognized with the 2015 NYS Broadband Team Award, ECC has provided over 25 years of expertise, advancing broadband, technology, and security solutions to support economic development, public safety, education, and healthcare.

  • Conducted a site visit in October of 2024- Mr. Bill Hayes, ECC Technologies.
  • Provided and reviewed a comprehensive FUFSD Smart Schools Assessment in November of 2024.
  • Offered recommendations for Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA) expenditures in December of 2024.
  • Delivered a detailed Scope of Work to support a successful SSBA submission and approval in December of 2024.

Florida UFSD SSBA ECC Technologies Assessment Results

After review of the district’s current Instructional Technology Plan, Mr. Hayes, ECC Technologies conducted a full review of our technology infrastructure focusing primarily on:

  • Network Switches 
    • A network switch connects devices and forwards data packets within a local area network (LAN).
    • Upgrade Year: 2022
    • Architecture: Stacked Cisco
    • Core Switch at SS Seward: Cisco, 24 ports
    • Core Switch at Golden Hill ES: Cisco, 8 ports
    • Switch Features: 8 MGIG Ethernet ports, supports 2.5 MGigE wireless access points
      • Recommendation: Consider adding a core switch at each facility for improved performance and redundancy
  • Wireless Access Points 
    • A wireless access point (WAP) enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network, acting as a central hub to transmit data and provide internet access without wired connections.
    • The district’s existing Cisco Wireless Access Points (WAPs), installed in 2015, include 98 interior WAPs and 2 Cisco 5520 WAP Controllers (located at S.S. Seward Institute, each with 50 licenses). WAPs are distributed as follows:
    • S.S. Seward Memorial (Admin): 4 WAPs connected to HS WAP Controller
    • S.S. Seward Institute (MS/HS): 56 WAPs and 2 Cisco WAP Controllers
    • Golden Hill ES: 36 WAPs
      • Recommendation: The district plans to replace all interior WAPs and add five exterior WAPs: 3 at Golden Hill ES and 2 at S.S. Seward Institute. Additionally, two new Cisco 9800 WAP Controllers with cloud-based licenses will be installed, one as the master and the other for redundancy.
  • Uninterruptible Power 
    • An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides backup power during outages, protecting equipment from damage and data loss while ensuring continuous operation.
    • The district installed new UPS units in 2019 with E-rate funding, primarily APC SMX2000 models. Battery issues have arisen due to the original batteries not being replaced, and it’s recommended that all UPS units receive new batteries. Additionally, new management cards are requested for remote monitoring, and some UPS units should be mounted in racks with new network rack rails.
    • UPS operating loads were documented, confirming all units are appropriately sized:
      • S.S. Seward Institute:
        • MDF & IDFs
      • Golden Hill ES:
        • MDF & IDF
      • S.S. Seward Memorial:
        • MDF
  • IP Telephone System 
    • An IP telephone system (IP PBX) uses the internet and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to make and receive calls, replacing traditional phone lines.
    • 2022 Upgrade: Cisco VOIP system upgraded, Call Manager Servers and Cisco Routers at S.S. Seward Institute and Golden Hill ES Upgraded.
    • Current IP Phones: 143 IP phones, including 103 Cisco – classroom models
    • Issue: Cisco classroom phones are at end of life/support
      • Recommendation: Replace Cisco classroom phones with a newer model Cisco IP phone and increase network speed for computers.
  • Telecom Grounding System
    • A telecommunications grounding system connects a system’s metallic components to the earth, ensuring safety and reliability. It prevents electric shock by directing excess electricity to the earth, reduces the risk of fire by safely discharging excess electricity, protects sensitive equipment from damage, and helps balance the electrical load during overloads.
      • S.S. Seward Memorial (Admin): Install a new telecom grounding system and lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points.
      • S.S. Seward Institute (MS/HS): Install a new telecom grounding system and lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points.

      Golden Hill (ES): The IDF room has a telecom grounding system, but lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points is recommended. The MDF lacks a telecom grounding system, so a new system should be installed along with lightning protection for exterior equipment.

Public Hearing Information

Public Comment Period – Friday, December 20, 2024 – Monday, January 20, 2025

Contact Helen Arena for Public Comments: harena@floridaufsd.org

Public Hearing: Thursday, January 23, 2025, 7:00pm, S.S. Seward Institute

**No public comments were received during the designated public comment period. **

Project Schedule

    • Preliminary Scope & BOE preliminary Budget Approval: Dec. 19. 2024
    • 30-Day Comment Period: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 20, 2025
    • Complete Smart Schools Investment Plan Application: Dec. 2024-Feb. 2025
    • Public Hearing / BOE SSIP Final approval: Jan. 23, 2025
    • NYSED Letter of Intent: Jan. 24, 2025
    • Submit for Smart Schools Funding (SSIP): Feb. 2025
    • Design: March – June 2025
    • Smart Schools Funding Approval: Oct. 2025
    • NYSED Facilities Planning Approval: Oct. 2025
    • Bidding: Nov. 2025
    • Construction: Jan. 2026 – April 2026

Smart Schools Project Scope Summary

FUFSD SS Project Scope Summary Capital Construction Cost: $404,616.00 10% Construction Contingency: $40,461.60 Subtotal $445,077.60 10% Incidental Costs $44,507.76 Total Project Costs $489,585.36 Smart Schools Funding $ 490,283 Difference $ 697.64

  • The Florida Union Free School District Office of Instructional Services wants to hear your suggestions, concerns, and questions.  If you are experiencing any technical issues, email it.help@floridaufsd.org.  For security purposes, the IT Support email will only accept correspondence from school district-issued email accounts. You can also reach technology support at 845-651-3095 ext. 30015

    If you are unable to access any forms or publications on this page, please contact Dana Castine at 845-651-3095 ext 30015 or dcastine@floridaufsd.org to receive the information in an alternative format.

  • The district has been awarded $490, 283 from the New York State Smart Schools Bond Funding program, which was initiated in 2014. The program provides financial support for enhancing educational technology and infrastructure in public schools.

    • Established in 2014 through a $2 billion bond act.
    • Supports educational technology and infrastructure upgrades in public schools.
    • Funds technology, equipment, internet/connectivity, security, and innovative learning spaces.
    • Aims to foster student engagement and achievement through modernized learning environments.
    • Current Florida UFSD-approved Instructional Technology Plan for 2022-2025 aligns with the strategic use of SSBA funds for the project.

    Founded in 1995, ECC Technologies specializes in technology and communications consulting, leading broadband network development and Open Access fiber optics in New York State. Recognized with the 2015 NYS Broadband Team Award, ECC has provided over 25 years of expertise, advancing broadband, technology, and security solutions to support economic development, public safety, education, and healthcare.

    • Conducted a site visit in October of 2024- Mr. Bill Hayes, ECC Technologies.
    • Provided and reviewed a comprehensive FUFSD Smart Schools Assessment in November of 2024.
    • Offered recommendations for Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA) expenditures in December of 2024.
    • Delivered a detailed Scope of Work to support a successful SSBA submission and approval in December of 2024.

    Florida UFSD SSBA ECC Technologies Assessment Results

    After review of the district’s current Instructional Technology Plan, Mr. Hayes, ECC Technologies conducted a full review of our technology infrastructure focusing primarily on:

    • Network Switches 
      • A network switch connects devices and forwards data packets within a local area network (LAN).
      • Upgrade Year: 2022
      • Architecture: Stacked Cisco
      • Core Switch at SS Seward: Cisco, 24 ports
      • Core Switch at Golden Hill ES: Cisco, 8 ports
      • Switch Features: 8 MGIG Ethernet ports, supports 2.5 MGigE wireless access points
        • Recommendation: Consider adding a core switch at each facility for improved performance and redundancy
    • Wireless Access Points 
      • A wireless access point (WAP) enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network, acting as a central hub to transmit data and provide internet access without wired connections.
      • The district’s existing Cisco Wireless Access Points (WAPs), installed in 2015, include 98 interior WAPs and 2 Cisco 5520 WAP Controllers (located at S.S. Seward Institute, each with 50 licenses). WAPs are distributed as follows:
      • S.S. Seward Memorial (Admin): 4 WAPs connected to HS WAP Controller
      • S.S. Seward Institute (MS/HS): 56 WAPs and 2 Cisco WAP Controllers
      • Golden Hill ES: 36 WAPs
        • Recommendation: The district plans to replace all interior WAPs and add five exterior WAPs: 3 at Golden Hill ES and 2 at S.S. Seward Institute. Additionally, two new Cisco 9800 WAP Controllers with cloud-based licenses will be installed, one as the master and the other for redundancy.
    • Uninterruptible Power 
      • An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides backup power during outages, protecting equipment from damage and data loss while ensuring continuous operation.
      • The district installed new UPS units in 2019 with E-rate funding, primarily APC SMX2000 models. Battery issues have arisen due to the original batteries not being replaced, and it’s recommended that all UPS units receive new batteries. Additionally, new management cards are requested for remote monitoring, and some UPS units should be mounted in racks with new network rack rails.
      • UPS operating loads were documented, confirming all units are appropriately sized:
        • S.S. Seward Institute:
          • MDF & IDFs
        • Golden Hill ES:
          • MDF & IDF
        • S.S. Seward Memorial:
          • MDF
    • IP Telephone System 
      • An IP telephone system (IP PBX) uses the internet and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to make and receive calls, replacing traditional phone lines.
      • 2022 Upgrade: Cisco VOIP system upgraded, Call Manager Servers and Cisco Routers at S.S. Seward Institute and Golden Hill ES Upgraded.
      • Current IP Phones: 143 IP phones, including 103 Cisco – classroom models
      • Issue: Cisco classroom phones are at end of life/support
        • Recommendation: Replace Cisco classroom phones with a newer model Cisco IP phone and increase network speed for computers.
    • Telecom Grounding System
      • A telecommunications grounding system connects a system’s metallic components to the earth, ensuring safety and reliability. It prevents electric shock by directing excess electricity to the earth, reduces the risk of fire by safely discharging excess electricity, protects sensitive equipment from damage, and helps balance the electrical load during overloads.
        • S.S. Seward Memorial (Admin): Install a new telecom grounding system and lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points.
        • S.S. Seward Institute (MS/HS): Install a new telecom grounding system and lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points.

        Golden Hill (ES): The IDF room has a telecom grounding system, but lightning protection for exterior cameras and wireless access points is recommended. The MDF lacks a telecom grounding system, so a new system should be installed along with lightning protection for exterior equipment.

    Public Hearing Information

    Public Comment Period – Friday, December 20, 2024 – Monday, January 20, 2025

    Contact Helen Arena for Public Comments: harena@floridaufsd.org

    Public Hearing: Thursday, January 23, 2025, 7:00pm, S.S. Seward Institute

    **No public comments were received during the designated public comment period. **

    Project Schedule

      • Preliminary Scope & BOE preliminary Budget Approval: Dec. 19. 2024
      • 30-Day Comment Period: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 20, 2025
      • Complete Smart Schools Investment Plan Application: Dec. 2024-Feb. 2025
      • Public Hearing / BOE SSIP Final approval: Jan. 23, 2025
      • NYSED Letter of Intent: Jan. 24, 2025
      • Submit for Smart Schools Funding (SSIP): Feb. 2025
      • Design: March – June 2025
      • Smart Schools Funding Approval: Oct. 2025
      • NYSED Facilities Planning Approval: Oct. 2025
      • Bidding: Nov. 2025
      • Construction: Jan. 2026 – April 2026

    Smart Schools Project Scope Summary

    FUFSD SS Project Scope Summary Capital Construction Cost: $404,616.00 10% Construction Contingency: $40,461.60 Subtotal $445,077.60 10% Incidental Costs $44,507.76 Total Project Costs $489,585.36 Smart Schools Funding $ 490,283 Difference $ 697.64