When campus quiets down for the summer, it opens up a valuable opportunity to tackle IT projects that are too disruptive or time consuming to complete during the school year.
From infrastructure upgrades to new technology rollouts, summer is the best time for independent schools to invest in long-term improvements. Here are seven of the most effective IT projects to prioritize before students and staff return.
1. Upgrade Your Network Infrastructure
A strong network is foundational for modern learning, especially with the growing demand for cloud-based apps, hybrid learning tools, and security systems. Summer is the ideal time to upgrade switches, access points, and cabling, especially in older buildings or across large campuses.
Schools often turn to cloud-managed solutions like Meraki to simplify management and improve performance across multiple buildings.
2. Strengthen Cybersecurity Measures
Cybersecurity remains a top concern for schools of all sizes. Summer is the perfect time to evaluate your current security stack, close vulnerabilities, and deploy stronger defenses. Consider:
- Updating or replacing firewalls
- Rolling out endpoint protection (e.g., Sophos)
- Implementing multi-factor authentication
- Launching security awareness training programs with platforms like KnowBe4
Don’t wait until the fall to address potential risks, use the quieter months to be proactive.
3. Refresh Outdated Classroom Technology
Technology in classrooms is always evolving and so are the expectations of teachers and students. Whether it’s replacing projectors, upgrading displays, or improving audio systems, summer offers a rare chance to install and test new equipment without disrupting classes.
Brands like Epson and Zoom offer flexible, easy-to-manage solutions for video, audio, and display technology across campus.
4. Complete One-Time or Deferred IT Projects
Have a list of IT tasks that keep getting pushed to “someday”? Summer is that day. These might include:
- Server room reorganizations
- Device refreshes or large-scale rollouts
- Backup system upgrades
- IT closet cleanups and standardization
Taking care of these projects now can reduce downtime and support tickets in the fall.
5. Deploy or Optimize Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Managing hundreds of student and faculty devices without an MDM solution can be a logistical nightmare. Tools like Mosyle allow schools to automate deployments, enforce security policies, and push updates remotely which is especially useful for Apple-heavy environments.
Summer provides the time to properly configure and test your MDM system before devices are back in regular use.
6. Expand Physical Security and Emergency Systems
Physical security is more tech-enabled than ever. Cloud-based camera systems, smart access control, and emergency communication tools can all be integrated into your school’s IT environment. Solutions from Verkada or CyberData offer modern alternatives to legacy systems.
Installing these over the summer ensures your campus is safer and more secure come fall.
7. Conduct an IT Audit and Strategic Review
Summer is also a great time to pause and reflect. What’s working well? What needs improvement? An IT audit helps schools assess infrastructure, security, software licenses, and support systems—and develop a strategic plan for future investment.
Even simple steps like documenting systems, evaluating support workflows, or reviewing vendor contracts can make a big difference for the coming year.
Final Thoughts
Summer offers a rare moment for schools to invest in lasting improvements to their technology systems. Whether you’re refreshing devices, strengthening cybersecurity, or upgrading infrastructure, planning and execution during this window can pay dividends all year long.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider reaching out to an IT partner with experience in education. A strategic review or consultation can help you prioritize the projects that will have the biggest impact.
Ready to Get Started?
From full-scale network redesigns to one-time summer projects, Knowing Technologies partners with independent schools to deliver results that build long-term trust. Contact us today to schedule a summer planning session or explore our IT services for schools.
