Del Norte Schools Moves Forward with Critical Wireless Infrastructure Refresh
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- DNUSD Headlines & Features
Michael Hawkins
[Crescent City, CA] – The Del Norte County Unified School District Board of Trustees has approved a key update to the District’s aging wireless infrastructure. During the most recent Board Meeting, Ryan Bahten, Director of Network Information Services for Del Norte County Office of Education (DNCOE), presented a comprehensive proposal to upgrade and modernize the Wireless Infrastructure in all Del Norte County Schools. This effort includes new Wireless Access Points (APs) and Wireless Controllers at all District Schools, as well as Castle Rock Charter School, and County Office of Education Schools—an initiative totaling $696,285.98.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Del Norte County Office of Education
Release #2503
Date: March 21, 2025
Del Norte Schools Moves Forward with Critical Wireless Infrastructure Refresh
[Crescent City, CA] – The Del Norte County Unified School District Board of Trustees has approved a key update to the District’s aging wireless infrastructure. During the most recent Board Meeting, Ryan Bahten, Director of Network Information Services for Del Norte County Office of Education (DNCOE), presented a comprehensive proposal to upgrade and modernize the Wireless Infrastructure in all Del Norte County Schools. This effort includes new Wireless Access Points (APs) and Wireless Controllers at all District Schools, as well as Castle Rock Charter School, and County Office of Education Schools—an initiative totaling $696,285.98.
With Board approval, the DNCOE IT Department will now pursue final authorization to use expiring E-Rate funding from federal agencies—potentially covering 85% of the project’s expenses. This strategy ensures no impact on the General Fund and safeguards resources for other District programs amid ongoing budget challenges. By leveraging soon-to-expire federal subsidies, the District anticipates substantial savings and a robust, long-term Wi-Fi solution across all schools.
Summary & Rationale
Del Norte Schools’ current wireless equipment has reached End-of-Life (EOL) and End-of-Support (EOS), and is providing an outdated wireless standard, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). The new Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) system will:
- Deliver greater speed and capacity to handle a larger number of devices simultaneously
- Provide stronger, more secure, and more reliable coverage in complex school environments
- Serve as a future-ready platform designed for next-generation digital tools
Maintaining a modern, secure, and well-supported wireless network is critical,” said Bahten. “It’s not just about faster internet speeds; it’s about ensuring our students and staff have the resources they need to succeed every day. By leveraging E-Rate funding, we minimize the financial burden on the district and the community while also upholding our commitment to be a vital resource during emergencies by providing reliable network infrastructure
Media Contact:
Michael Hawkins, Public Information Officer, Director of Communications
Del Norte County Office of Education
(707) 464-0237
communications@dnusd.org