2023-2024INSURANCE

Communications

Communications

$99,720

• This category contains costs associated with various forms of communications. In FY24 it is anticipated this line will be funded 50% by the E-rate* program. The E-rate program funds Wi-Fi equipment, Fiber and Internet to the classrooms. Our district‐wide network connects each school to Town Hall and is the conduit that runs our phones, television, internet, data, security alarms (lockdown, fire, and burglar), and electronic door access for each of the schools. These robust Fiber optic connections have greatly reduced annual expenses (i.e., phones and internet). E-rate fully supports the WPS networking model and will continue to provide maximum funding for eligible items. In FY24 E-rate will fund the following amounts for fiber maintenance fees ($8,850) and internet service for the district ($7,020). In 2016, the State of CT cut funding for Internet services to all public schools (a previously free service). It is anticipated that E-rate will fund $15,870 in FY24, which includes 50% of mentioned communication items. The district remains committed to finding creative ways to save money on communications, for fiscal 2024 we’ve lowered the monthly expenditure for the fiber network to align our allotment with our usage.

• In FY23 Waterford changed cell phone providers from Verizon Wireless to T-Mobile after comparing rates and offerings from multiple cell phone carriers. This effort will save roughly $1,800 annually while providing the users with new features like Wi-Fi hotspots and unlimited voice and data.

Postage

• This is the total cost of postage for Waterford Public Schools. This line is being increases from prior years as there will be a larger effort in FY2024 to recruit out of district students to the Waterford High School.

Advertising

• Covers the cost of classified ads for personnel vacancies and legal notices. Electronic media is used whenever it is effective and efficient and only doing print advertisement when it is required by legal mandate or is the best option.

*The universal service Schools and Libraries Program, commonly known as “E-rate”, provides discounts to help eligible schools and libraries in the United States obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. The program is intended to ensure that schools and libraries have access to affordable telecommunications and information services.