Agenda Item
a. RFP 25-611: Personal Electronic Device Locker Installation Services (Not to exceed $1,615,215.31) ~ Updated 9.5.2025
Summary: Presented by: Dr. Kishia Towns, Chief, Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services
Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education ("the Board") approve the contract award of RFP 25-611 for Personal Electronic Device Locker Installation Services that include the purchase and installation of wall-mountable cell phone lockers in DeKalb County School District middle schools to Ricoh USA effective upon Board approval, not to exceed $1,615,215.31.
Why: The DeKalb County School District is committed to promoting a distraction-free learning environment aligned with its Disconnect to Reconnect initiative. The presence and misuse of personal mobile devices during school hours hinder academic engagement, increase safety risks, and present challenges to consistent enforcement of school policy. Wall-mountable cell phone lockers provide an equitable, scalable, and secure storage solution that minimizes these concerns, promotes student focus, and supports safer, more productive school climates.
Details: The selected vendor will supply, deliver, and install durable, tamper-resistant wall-mounted cell phone lockers at all middle schools. These lockers will feature individual locking mechanisms (e.g., combination, keypad) and offer 40-60 compartments per unit. The project includes school-specific site assessments, professional installation, administrator/staff training, warranty coverage, and technical support.
Installation will prioritize entry points and high-traffic areas to ensure ease of use, visibility, and compliance with ADA and fire code regulations. The lockers support consistent enforcement of district policy, reduce device-related behavioral incidents, and allow staff to focus on instruction and student engagement.
Financial impact: The Personal Electronic Device Locker Installation Services will be funded through the general funds operating budget of the Office of the Superintendent, Charge Code: (to be provided).
The cost not to exceed $1,615,215.31.
Contact: Dr. Kishia Towns, Chief, Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-1811
Dr. Darnell T. Logan, Director, Student Relations, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-1811
Effective: Upon Board Approval
Status: Pending Approval by the Office of Legal Affairs
Disconnect to Reconnect Initiative
The Disconnect to Reconnect initiative is a districtwide effort by the DeKalb County School District to cultivate
focused, respectful, and emotionally supportive learning environments. Rooted in the principles of the Code of
Student Conduct, this initiative is designed to support student achievement, foster interpersonal relationships, and
promote a culture of attentiveness and accountability throughout the school day.
As part of this initiative, students are strictly prohibited from using cell phones, smartphones or any other personal
electronic devices during the instructional day. This includes, but is not limited to, iPads, tablets, smartwatches,
smart glasses, headphones, earbuds, AirPods, and similar accessories.
All personal electronic devices must be powered off and kept out of sight from the moment students board the
school bus, are dropped off, or arrive on campus by any means. These devices may not be used at any point during
the instructional day, including class transitions, lunch periods, or any other time while on school grounds.
Violations of this policy will be considered disciplinary infractions and will be addressed in accordance with the
DeKalb County School District Code of Student Conduct. Consequences may include progressive disciplinary
actions based on the nature and frequency of the violation.
The rationale behind Disconnect to Reconnect is grounded in the need to re-establish meaningful engagement in
the learning process and to remove barriers to academic and social-emotional growth. The overuse of personal
technology in school has led to increased distractions, decreased academic performance, and weakened student-
to-student and student-to-staff relationships. By eliminating these distractions, the initiative creates space for
students to be fully present, communicate effectively, and build the skills necessary for lifelong success.
Disconnect to Reconnect directly supports the district’s broader commitments to legal compliance, student
wellness, and restorative practices by reinforcing expectations that promote safety, attentiveness, and mutual
respect. This initiative is not solely about device management, it is about empowering students to take ownership
of their education, reconnect with their learning environment, and contribute positively to their school community.
In compliance with the Distraction Free Education Act, the DeKalb County School District fully endorses the
Disconnect to Reconnect initiative for the 2025–2026 school year and beyond. The Code of Student Conduct and
the District’s discipline practices have been updated to ensure the effective implementation of this initiative.