Phoenix District Rolls Out 802.11n WiFi
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Creighton School District in Phoenix, AZ is deploying 802.11n WiFi district-wide in an effort to support 1:1 computing and other technology-centric initiatives. The district currently supports a mixed computing environment consisting of Apple MacBook systems, Windows-based PC notebooks, and BlackBerry devices.
For the deployment, the district went with Xirrus 802.11abg+n Wi-Fi Arrays.
“We have been utilizing Wi-Fi in our district for over 4 years now, but those traditional access points just didn't have the throughput to support all staff and student laptops, including four 1:1 classrooms, two Language Labs using Rosetta Stone, and professional development for over 400 certified staff members,” said Ed Stolze, director of Information Systems & Technology at Creighton School District, in a statement released this week. “Xirrus offered a far superior solution over Cisco, which would have required more than 500 access points, cable pulls, switch ports, along with several weeks to install and program. The Xirrus solution required roughly 65% less devices, which is a big deal when pulling cable through cinder block wall buildings. Thanks to Xirrus, we have no problem putting 40 to 60 teachers in a multi-purpose with ready access to the network for real-time technology professional development.”
He added: "We are now able to see at least three radios from anyplace in the district--allowing for better load balancing, throughput, and robustness. The Xirrus Wi-Fi network allows our staff to teach and modify their instruction based on real-time access to student assessment data--leading to quality instruction, caring teachers, and successful students.”
Creighton School District comprises nine schools: eight K-8 and one K-6, serving about 8,000 students. It employs about 1,200 faculty and staff.