2025 Chronology CAI

Chronology: Computer Aid, Inc. (CAI)
The Division of Information and Instructional Technology (DIIT) continues to build a talented
staff with extensive experience and expertise. Over the past year, DIIT has proudly filled 45
vacancies, primarily by promoting from within the district. Of these, 36 hires came from internal
candidates. To further support career growth, the department is developing a career advancement
pipeline that begins with IT Technicians (ITTs).

In addition to full-time staff, DeKalb County Schools benefit from staff augmentation, which
supplements the workforce with subject matter experts who bring versatility in response to the
evolving landscape of Information Technology. Staff augmentation is a common IT practice
across the nation, where districts and companies utilize external personnel, often through
third-party staffing agencies, to expand capacity and address specific skill gaps or project needs.
This approach enhances productivity and flexibility by allowing school districts to bring in
experienced professionals to support large-scale district projects and initiatives. The additional
support enables full-time staff to balance daily operations while driving technological
advancements across the district. Staff augmentation is also a cost-effective and scalable
solution, allowing districts to adjust resources based on project demands rather than committing
to full-time hires. By leveraging this model, school systems can innovate efficiently while
adapting to changing needs without overburdening existing staff.

Computer Aid, Inc. (CAI) is the State of Georgia's approved vendor for temporary IT staffing
resources. These contractors are engaged on an hourly or project basis, with milestone-based
payments facilitated through a network of staffing agencies and consulting firms. The district
utilizes contracted services across various roles and departments.

DIIT is actively implementing various projects while managing daily operations. Staff
augmentation is essential in supporting some of these initiatives.

   ●​ Network Modernization - Replacing all switches, cabling, and wireless access points.
   ●​ Physical Security - Intrusion alarm, door access control, & video surveillance.
   ●​ Instructional Device Lifecycle - Student and staff device refresh deployment, repair,
      insurance, asset management, and surplus.
   ●​ Data Center and Cloud Services - Transitioning servers to the cloud and Identity lifecycle
      management.
   ●​ Cybersecurity - Digital privacy, safety, and security.
   ●​ Enterprise Application and Data Services - Data governance, digital resource review /
      integration, district-wide records digitization digital resource review.
Financial Chronology

 Year                                          Staff Augmentation Cost Summary

 2024                                          $3,443,701

 2025                                          $3,444,996

 2026                                          $2,550,987.20 (Requested Not to Exceed)


Below is a list of contracted services and staff across various roles and departments that DIIT has
previously leveraged to supplement project needs. These positions may vary based on district
requirements. The hourly rates range from $60 to $154 per hour, based on the CAI state salary
schedule and depending on the position.

   ●​ Network Operations Center Engineer
   ●​ Mainframe Developer
   ●​ Project Manager
   ●​ Solutions Architect
   ●​ Technology Strategist Consultant
   ●​ Data Visualization Analyst
   ●​ Network Engineer
   ●​ Enterprise Services Engineer
   ●​ Database and Application Development
   ●​ ERP Implementation