Massachusetts District Boosts Portal Performance with Load Balancers

Seeking to optimize accessibility and minimize congestion on its new student information system, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) of Springfield, MA has implemented a system of application delivery controllers (ADC) and server load balancers, to distribute Web traffic evenly across its servers.

SPS recently implemented Pearson's PowerSchool, a Web-based student information system (SIS) that allowed it to centralize all of its records. At the same time, in order to make the SIS accessible while maintaining optimum Web traffic speeds, the district needed a new application delivery solution. The district went with the Kemp LoadMaster 5500.

"Our final selection on KEMP's LoadMaster was due to the combination of easy-to-use features and pricing, which wasn't matched by any other vendor," said Benjamin Wilson, SPS technology operations manager. He said the district was "surprised just how easy [the LM-5500 systems] were to use, and [we] are very pleased with the product's ability to scale to our future needs."

About the Author

Scott Aronowitz is a freelance writer based in Las Vegas. He has covered the technology, advertising, and entertainment sectors for seven years. He can be reached here.

Featured

  • laptop with AI symbol on screen

    Google Launches Lightweight Gemma 3n, Expanding Emphasis on Edge AI

    Google DeepMind has officially launched Gemma 3n, the latest version of its lightweight generative AI model designed specifically for mobile and edge devices — a move that reinforces the company's focus on on-device computing.

  • The AI Show

    Register for Free to Attend the World's Greatest Show for All Things AI in EDU

    The AI Show @ ASU+GSV, held April 5–7, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center, is a free event designed to help educators, students, and parents navigate AI's role in education. Featuring hands-on workshops, AI-powered networking, live demos from 125+ EdTech exhibitors, and keynote speakers like Colin Kaepernick and Stevie Van Zandt, the event offers practical insights into AI-driven teaching, learning, and career opportunities. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to integrate AI into classrooms while exploring innovations that promote equity, accessibility, and student success.

  • abstract pattern of cybersecurity, ai and cloud imagery

    Report Identifies Malicious Use of AI in Cloud-Based Cyber Threats

    A recent report from OpenAI identifies the misuse of artificial intelligence in cybercrime, social engineering, and influence operations, particularly those targeting or operating through cloud infrastructure. In "Disrupting Malicious Uses of AI: June 2025," the company outlines how threat actors are weaponizing large language models for malicious ends — and how OpenAI is pushing back.

  • laptop on a desk with its screen displaying numerous colorful educational app icons

    Survey Finds Majority of Schools Using 10 to 15 Educational Apps

    A new report points to the fragmented digital landscape of educational apps in use at schools and districts across the country.