In today’s schools, technology plays a critical role in keeping students engaged and prepared for a fiercely competitive global marketplace. Computer-based curriculum, centralized student information systems, library applications, messaging systems and more are having a transformative effect on the classroom.
Emtec has a long history of helping K-12 schools, colleges and universities choose, implement and maintain a broad range of technologies that enrich and improve the educational experience. While we offer unmatched expertise in software, hardware, networking and system solutions, it is our understanding of the educational environment that sets us apart.
We recognize the unique needs of educators, and understand they need to work within the confines of limited budgets, classroom schedules and tight time frames. On top of that, schools have special requirements for security and access control. That’s why we take a different approach for our education clients, ensuring that we meet their distinctive classroom and institutional data management requirements.
Here are a few examples of our recent work with educational institutions:
Technology Refresh
Duval County Public Schools, located in Jacksonville, Fla., is the 19th-largest school district in the U.S., comprising 165 schools and alternative learning centers. Emtec has been a key IT partner for the district for the past nine years, and has been involved in several technology refreshes — including a project to replace or upgrade desktops and operating systems throughout the district. Emtec continues to provide software maintenance and infrastructure support.
Network Upgrade
Emtec designed and implemented a new Cisco network for the Paterson (N.J.) School District, connecting 61 school and administrative buildings. The project involved the replacement of approximately 600 network switches and the installation of backup power devices throughout the district. Because the work was slated during the school year, much of the work was done at night and on weekends. Still, Emtec completed the work on time and within budget.
IP Telephony
A number of school districts have called on Emtec to implement IP telephony solutions to replace costly and outdated PBX systems. In every case, the school district dramatically cut costs related to infrastructure and administration. Better yet, Emtec was able to demonstrate ways the new phone systems could be used to enhance classroom security, collaboration and creativity.
Messaging Platforms
Emtec helped Southern Regional School District in Manahawkin, N.J., upgrade a fragmented messaging platform. We updated Active Directory domain controllers on more than 2,000 servers and migrated the whole network to a common platform.
Desktop Virtualization
Emtec recently completed a “virtual desktop” project for a New Jersey K-12 school system. The project included the creation of 100 virtual desktops using HP servers connected to an HP SAN. This VDI project uses VMware View, the industry-leading solution for virtual desktops. A secure server allows access to virtual desktops from the Internet.
Asset Management
Emtec recently completed an inventory audit for a Florida college, documenting the location and status of all technology assets. In addition, Emtec is deploying nearly 4,000 desktops and laptops for the college, and providing warranty break/fix work as well.
At Emtec, we recognize that schools of today are undergoing a significant transformation — both physically and philosophically. The classroom will evolve as a collaborative environment that allows students and teachers to connect to the world’s best teaching and learning resources from any location. Emtec is ready to deliver the new technologies required to build new connections.
