Agenda Item
a. Approval of StepCG Network Migration, Connectivity Services, and Network Components (Not to Exceed $188,650)
Summary: Presented by: Dr. Kermit Belcher, Chief Information Officer, Division of Information and Instructional Technology
Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education approve the purchase of network infrastructure migration services, connectivity enhancement services, and associated network components from StepCG in an amount not to exceed $188,650.
Why: The purpose of this agenda item is to support the Division of Information & Instructional Technology (DIIT) in modernizing and strengthening the district's network infrastructure through the purchase of network engineering services and associated network connectivity components. These improvements will enhance reliability, improve network resiliency, support continuity of operations, and strengthen the overall security posture of the DeKalb County School District (DCSD).
Details: StepCG will provide engineering services and network connectivity components that support the district's ongoing network modernization efforts.
Key Services Include:
Network Equipment Migration
Design, configure, and implement new network equipment at district facilities
Support the transition from aging network infrastructure to modernized Juniper-based equipment
Provide remote and onsite engineering services during installation and cutover activities
Network Connectivity Integration Services
Design and configure connectivity between district locations and the district's upgraded wide area network services
Develop network routing and implementation documentation to support long-term operations
Maintain existing network pathways during the transition to minimize service interruptions
Provide troubleshooting and implementation support to ensure reliable connectivity across schools and administrative sites
Network Connectivity Components
Provide the network connectivity components required to support the district's network modernization initiative across all district facilities and schools (1,500 components).
These services will help ensure that students and staff have reliable access to instructional, operational, and business systems while improving the district's ability to support future technology initiatives.
Financial impact: $188,650
General Fund
100.2800.530000.00011.7600.9990.0308.070.0000 Professional Tech Services
100.2210.561500.00011.7600.9990.0308.070.0000 Expendable Equipment
Contact: Dr. Kermit Belcher, Chief Information Officer, Division of Information and Instructional Technology, Phone: 678.676.1274
Effective: July 2026
Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs
DATE RECEIVED: ______________
MATTER ASSIGNED TO: _________
Request for Legal Assistance
DCSD Office of Legal Affairs
ATTORNEY – CLIENT COMMUNICATION
PLEASE SUBMIT COMPLETED REQUEST FORM TO
DCSD OFFICE OF LEGAL AFFAIRS.
*** This request is a confidential communication and should be treated as such ***
DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST
Title of Item/Topic:
________________________________________________________________
StepCG Network Migration, Connectivity Services, and Network Components
(e.g., contract review, policy matter, etc.)
6/10/26
Date of request: ___________ Due Date: ___________ (Allow 3 to 5 business days)
July 13, 2026 Board Meeting
Background information/Detail: __________________________________________________________
Purchase of network migration, connectivity integration, and implementation services from StepCG
_____________________________________________________________________________________
PROCUREMENT DETAILS (if applicable)
Include details confirming that all applicable DCSD procurement policies and requirements have been
Board Policy DJE III D.3(d)
adhered to: ____________________________________________________________________________
OMNIA Partners Cooperative Contract No. 01-170
______________________________________________________________________________________
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION
Please attach/include any additional supporting documentation that are relevant to your request.
StepCG MSA, StepCG Quotes, Omnia Contract 01-170
Description of supporting documentation, if any ____________________________________________
REQUIRED AUTHORIZATION
LaKeisha Brooks
Requested by: _____________________________________________________________________
lakeisha_brooks@dekalbschoolsga.org
Email: __________________________ 678-676-1274
Telephone: ____________________________________
DIIT
Department: _______________________________________________________________________
Kermit Belcher
Cabinet Member authorizing the request: _______________________________________________
LEGAL APPROVAL
Approved as to form by the DCSD Office of Legal Affairs? ☐ Yes ☐ No
-OR- (check one only)
Approved as to form by Outside Legal Counsel? ☐ Yes ☐ No
*Referrals to Outside Legal Counsel must be coordinated and approved by the DCSD Legal Dept.
Approving Attorney (and law firm if Outside Counsel ____________________________________
Comments: __________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________