Technology Purchasing Guide

Nine Mile Falls School District  |  Spring 2026

This establishes expectations for how staff may purchase technology hardware and software using any funding source. It is to ensure purchases are secure, cost-effective, and work with district infrastructure while enabling IT to support staff instructional needs. This applies to all Nine Mile Falls School District staff and entities that use district funds for technology purchases of any kind.

Requirements

• All technology purchases must receive IT approval before purchase, regardless of funding source.

• Supported devices and software are chosen by the IT department in collaboration with the requesting party. 

• All purchases come from an IT recommendation based on the needs of the staff member or department.

• Requests for exceptions must be submitted to IT in writing, with justification based on: instructional need, device manageability, network compatibility, and total cost of ownership. (see exception request process below).

• Non-standard devices are not supported except in documented edge cases that have been formally approved by both IT and administration.

• Subscription-based software must be reviewed and approved by IT and the finance office prior to purchase or use on district networks or devices.

• Grant applications that include technology purchases must include IT during the planning process before the grant is submitted to ensure proposed purchases align with supported solutions.

• Purchases made without prior IT approval may not receive technical support and could be subject to removal from the district network.

• IT will work proactively with staff to identify supported alternatives that meet instructional needs. Staff are encouraged to bring requests to IT early in the planning process.

• This guide applies to all staff and covers all funding sources, including but not limited to: classroom budgets, PTG/PTN funds, personal grants, and district grants.

Exception Request Process

Staff who wish to purchase or use a device, software, or technology solution that is not currently approved by the District must submit an IT support ticket requesting an exception. The request must include:

• A clear description of the instructional or operational need the technology will address.

• An explanation of why currently approved or supported technology does not adequately meet the identified need.

• The name of the proposed device or software, the estimated cost, and the proposed funding source.

Requests will be reviewed by the Information Technology Department in consultation with District administration, as appropriate. Approval will be based on factors including instructional value, security, privacy, compatibility with existing systems, ongoing support requirements, and available funding.

Approved exceptions will be documented. When appropriate, the approved technology may be added to the District's list of supported devices or software following successful implementation and evaluation.

Contact & Resources

For questions, exception requests, or any other technology-related items, contact the IT Helpdesk:

• Email: ithelp@9mile.org

• Phone: x4357