WiFi contract

Goedde wants to drop WiFi deal (UPDATED)

Sen. John Goedde would like the state to give the school districts $2.25 million to pursue WiFi hookups. His move sets up a potential showdown with State Superintendent Tom Luna — and perhaps Gov. Butch Otter.

Luna: WiFi hookups will hit deadline

During a briefing on the high-profile WiFi contract Tuesday morning, state superintendent Tom Luna fielded a wide range of questions — with a few tougher questions thrown in.

‘Tis the season — for WiFi hookups?

Some school officials and IT managers will be working during the Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks, as a contractor tries to roll out WiFi in some 200 schools across Idaho.

Contractor: WiFi project on schedule

But only 30 or so schools have a finished system in place.

Where WiFi moves a little slower …

Most school districts participating in the state’s WiFi project want their service, well, yesterday. But one high school is the exception to the rule.

WiFi contractor agrees to restructure deal

Under the restructuring, Education Networks of America will be paid based on the number of schools signing up for the WiFi project. This could reduce — but probably won’t eliminate — the price gap between ENA and the contract’s low bidder.

State WiFi project: One district done

The contractor hired to install WiFi in roughly 200 high schools and junior high schools has begun site inspections — and installation. So far, the project is proceeding on schedule, says Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna’s chief of staff.

Sen. Cameron goes quiet on WiFi controversy

But the powerful co-chairman of the Legislature’ budget-writing committee, says he still has “strong feelings” about the controversial school WiFi contract.

Lawmakers have WiFi contract questions

However, two key lawmakers aren’t questioning the decision to pay more to the state’s WiFi contractor. “If decisions were made purely on price, we would all be driving Yugos,” said House Education Committee Chairman Reed DeMordaunt.

WiFi deal: Low bidder raises questions

Tek-Hut’s Nate Bondelid said he is used to the most inexpensive bid being given priority in public projects. The president of the Twin Falls company also wondered why his firm received two different scores in one category and was docked points in another.