Chronology- StepCG

2026 Chronology- StepCG

The Division of Information & Instructional Technology (DIIT) is requesting to partner with STEP
CG to support critical network modernization efforts across the DeKalb County School District.
These services and associated network connectivity components will help improve network
reliability, strengthen operational resilience, and ensure schools and administrative facilities
remain connected to instructional and business systems.

In February 2026, the district approved a co-managed wide area network (WAN) solution with
AT&T. The current request is for engineering services, network connectivity components, and
implementation support necessary to continue the district's network modernization efforts and
complete Phase III upgrades already planned as part of the district's long-term technology
strategy. These services support the migration of network infrastructure, implementation of
enhanced routing and resiliency services, and deployment of the connectivity components
required to support the upgraded environment.

Network Equipment Migration- Cost $76,400

STEP CG will provide configuration, integration, troubleshooting, and cutover services to
migrate district schools and headend locations from legacy Brocade routing switches to
previously purchased Juniper infrastructure.

The district continues to modernize its network infrastructure by replacing aging Brocade
network equipment with Juniper technology designed to improve reliability, performance, and
long-term supportability. STEP CG will provide the engineering services needed to configure,
test, and transition network equipment at schools and headend facilities during this
implementation period. This work will ensure schools and support locations are prepared to
meet current and future technology demands while reducing the risk of service interruptions
caused by aging infrastructure.

Key Services Include:
● Improves reliability and performance of the district's network infrastructure
● Reduces the risk of outages caused by aging equipment
● Supports instructional, operational, and business systems used daily by students and staff
● Provides a stable foundation for future technology initiatives

Network Connectivity Integration Services- Cost $44,750
STEP CG will provide engineering, design, configuration, and integration services to implement
Layer 3 routing and connect district facilities to the new AT&T co-managed WAN environment.

STEP CG will provide specialized engineering services to design, configure, and integrate Layer
3 routing services between district facilities, headend locations, and the new AT&T ASE
network. These services include routing design, network integration, resiliency planning, and
implementation support to ensure multiple connectivity paths remain available for critical district
operations. This work is distinct from the network equipment migration and focuses on the
routing architecture and connectivity services required to support the district's upgraded network
environment.
Key Services Include:
● Implements Layer 3 routing and network integration services for the AT&T WAN environment
● Improves network resiliency and continuity of operations through multiple connectivity paths
● Helps maintain connectivity during service interruptions or outages
● Enhances reliability for instructional and business applications
● Strengthens the overall security and stability of the district's network environment

Network Connectivity Components- Cost $67,500
The district will purchase approximately 1,500 connectivity components required to support the
Juniper migration and Layer 3 network integration across approximately 140 district locations.

The district requires approximately 1,500 network connectivity components to support the
implementation of the network equipment migration and network connectivity integration
projects across approximately 140 district locations. These components are necessary to
connect upgraded network equipment and routing infrastructure to the District Campus Network
and enable reliable communication between schools, administrative facilities, and district
technology resources.

Together, these will strengthen the district's network infrastructure, improve operational
continuity, and support reliable access to instructional, administrative, and security systems
across district facilities. This work will help position the district to meet current technology
demands while supporting future growth and modernization efforts.

Procurement:

Pursuant to Board Policy DJE III D.3(d), Exceptions to Competitive Selection, the Purchasing
Department is authorized to make purchases through contracts formally solicited and obtained
by the State of Georgia and through inter-governmental and educational cooperatives, alliances,
and consortiums to achieve cost savings and administrative efficiencies based on economies of
scale. As a result, this purchase will utilize the OMNIA Partners Cooperative Contract Number
01-170.

Financial Impact:
 Description                                  Cost

 Network Equipment Migration                  $76,400

 Network Connectivity Integration             $44,750
 Services
 Network Connectivity Components              $67,500

                                      Total $188,650 Requested