Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) is actively focused on key operational priorities for the 2025-2026 school year, emphasizing student achievement, behavior, and professional development. The district continues to implement its 1:1 "Learning Reimagined" device program, ensuring all students in grades K-12 have access to personal computing devices for instruction. This includes maintaining a technology-rich learning environment across all classrooms, equipped with interactive tools and internet-connected devices.
These ongoing initiatives create operational pressure to ensure seamless integration of instructional technology, robust network infrastructure, and effective management of digital learning tools. Critical systems for device management, cybersecurity, and data analytics are becoming increasingly important to support these priorities. Vendors specializing in these areas can offer solutions that address specific operational challenges and support RCPS's strategic goals for student success and specialized learning environments.
Rockdale County Public Schools Snapshot
Location: Conyers, Georgia School District: Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) Grades Served: PreK-12 Technology Environment: 1:1 device program with laptops for grades 2-12 and iPads for grades K-1; interactive classroom technology Key Initiative: Implementation of 2025-2026 District Priorities for student achievement, behavior, and staff development, alongside STEM program expansion and facilities modernization Website: www.rockdaleschools.org
Recent Funding and Procurement Activity
| Funding Activity | Amount | Operational Area | Current School-Level Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barksdale Elementary School Renovation and Modifications Project (2025-2026) | Not publicly specified | Facilities Modernization | Active renovation for 2025-2026 school year to update elementary school infrastructure. |
| E-Rate Leased Lit Fiber Solution (Managed WAN) Bid No. 2026-0003 | Not publicly specified | Network Infrastructure | Procurement for district-wide managed WAN services, supporting all school campus connectivity. |
| Internet Services Bid No. 2026-0004 | Not publicly specified | Network Infrastructure | Procurement for district-wide internet services, impacting all schools' digital access. |
| RCPS Foundation Mini-Grants for Educational Projects (2026) | Up to $1,000 per grant | Instructional Technology & Resources | Provides funding for teachers and staff to acquire technology or software for classroom projects. |
| District Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2025 | $221,929,321.00 | District-Level Operations | Provides overall financial capacity supporting all district initiatives and departments. |
Leadership and Key Buying Personas
| Name | Role | Department | Public Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shirley Chesser | Superintendent | District Administration | - |
| Michael Rotjan | Chief Technology Officer | Technology | (770) 918-4282 |
| Thomas Schie | Director of Technology Operations and Digital Learning | Technology | (770) 860-4214 |
| Kaitlin Silva | Director of Information and Digital Learning | Technology | (770) 860-4278 |
| Brad Rudisail | Network Manager | Technology | (770) 860-4283 |
| Kristall Palmer | Data Integration Specialist | Technology | (770) 860-4217 |
| Suzanne Stripling | Data Resource Specialist | Technology | (770) 860-4213 |
| Phil Budensiek | Chief Operations Officer | Operational Services | (770) 860-4267 |
| Bruce Stuart | Executive Director of Facilities and Grounds | Facilities and Grounds | (770) 860-4215 |
| Ken Bohannon | Director of Facilities | Facilities and Grounds | (770) 860-4247 |
| Marki Dixon | Director of Purchasing | Financial Services | mdixon@rockdale.k12.ga.us |
Key Initiatives at a Glance
- Implementing 2025-2026 District Priorities focused on student achievement, behavior, and staff development.
- Maintaining 1:1 device deployment for grades K-12 students across all campuses.
- Expanding STEM education opportunities, including a new middle grades program for the Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology.
- Modernizing elementary school facilities through renovation projects, such as at Barksdale Elementary School.
- Upgrading district-wide network infrastructure and internet services for enhanced connectivity.
What Companies Can Sell to Rockdale County Public Schools
| Who Can Sell Here | Current Initiative | Operational Pressure | Seller Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Development Platforms | Implementing 2025-2026 District Priorities for staff development. | Ensuring consistent training delivery and tracking for all staff on new instructional practices. | Offer scalable online professional learning systems for continuous staff growth. |
| Learning Management Systems (LMS) | Focusing on Content Mastery and student engagement across all schools. | Integrating diverse learning resources and monitoring student progress effectively across various curricula. | Provide platforms that support rigorous instruction, collaboration, and data-driven learning. |
| Student Device Management Platforms | Sustaining the 1:1 device program for grades K-12. | Managing device inventory, security, and usage across multiple campuses without instructional disruption. | Deliver solutions for efficient deployment, monitoring, and maintenance of student laptops and iPads. |
| Maintaining classroom technology environments. | Coordinating software updates and ensuring device compatibility for interactive classroom tools. | Offer tools for remote management and troubleshooting of classroom devices and applications. | |
| Network Infrastructure Vendors | Upgrading district-wide network infrastructure and internet services. | Ensuring high-speed, reliable, and secure internet access for all devices and users across campuses. | Provide solutions for managed WAN, fiber connectivity, and robust WiFi network upgrades. |
| Cybersecurity Solutions | Protecting student data and district systems with extensive technology deployment. | Safeguarding against cyber threats and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. | Offer endpoint protection, network security, and data privacy solutions tailored for K-12 environments. |
| STEM Education Solution Providers | Expanding STEM education and specialized learning environments. | Equipping new STEM labs and programs with relevant, up-to-date technology and curriculum. | Deliver hands-on learning tools, specialized software, and curriculum support for STEM initiatives. |
| Developing the Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology middle grades program. | Integrating advanced scientific equipment and experimental platforms for specialized learning. | Provide integrated solutions for data collection, analysis, and simulation in science education. | |
| Facilities Modernization Contractors | Undertaking renovation and modification projects at elementary schools. | Coordinating construction timelines with school operations and ensuring minimal disruption. | Offer expertise in K-12 facility upgrades, including construction management and material supply. |
| Integrated Building Systems Vendors | Modernizing school facilities. | Integrating new security, HVAC, and energy management systems within renovated spaces. | Provide solutions for smart building controls, access management, and campus safety. |
| Data Analytics and Reporting Platforms | Implementing accountability checkpoints for district priorities. | Consolidating and analyzing diverse data sources to inform decision-making regarding student outcomes. | Offer unified dashboards and reporting tools for tracking attendance, behavior, and academic progress. |
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Why Companies Should Consider Selling to Rockdale County Public Schools
- Rockdale County Public Schools is actively investing in technology and infrastructure to support its 2025-2026 District Priorities.
- The district's existing 1:1 device program indicates a high dependency on digital tools and a continuous need for related services and upgrades.
- Ongoing facilities renovation projects create opportunities for building systems, security, and construction-related vendors.
- The expansion of STEM programs signals a demand for specialized educational technology and lab equipment.
- Recent procurement activities for network infrastructure confirm an active buying environment for core technology services.
Detailed Operational Breakdown of Rockdale County Public Schools’ Key Initiatives
1. Enhancing Student Achievement and Engagement through District Priorities
What Rockdale County Public Schools Is Doing
Rockdale County Public Schools is implementing its 2025-2026 District Priorities, which include a strong focus on Attendance, Behavior, Content Mastery, Development of Teachers and Staff, and Engagement. This involves rolling out systemic processes, establishing accountability checkpoints, and providing targeted professional learning across all schools to elevate academic outcomes and create supportive learning environments.
Key Buyer Personas
- Superintendent (Shirley Chesser)
- Director of Technology Operations and Digital Learning (Thomas Schie)
- Director of Information and Digital Learning (Kaitlin Silva)
- Data Integration Specialist (Kristall Palmer)
Operational Challenges
- Ensuring consistent implementation of new practices and policies across all schools creates coordination gaps.
- Integrating diverse data from attendance, behavior, and academic performance systems can lead to reporting inconsistencies.
- Coordinating professional development for a large staff while minimizing instructional disruption presents logistical challenges.
Relevant Company Categories for Rockdale County Public Schools
- Professional Development Platforms
- Learning Analytics Software
- Behavior Management Solutions
- Student Information System Integrators
- Instructional Coaching Tools
Relevant Companies
Vector Solutions — Offers a comprehensive suite of professional development and staff training platforms for K-12 education.
Relevant for: Delivering consistent and trackable training for district-wide professional growth initiatives.
PowerSchool — Provides various K-12 education technology solutions, including student information systems and data analytics.
Relevant for: Streamlining student data management and integrating attendance, behavior, and academic records.
Gaggle — Offers student safety and well-being solutions, including tools for monitoring student behavior and communication.
Relevant for: Supporting proactive behavior systems and creating safer learning environments.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed Rockdale County Public Schools is actively implementing its 2025-2026 District Priorities for student achievement and engagement.
Schools pursuing similar initiatives often face challenges in ensuring consistent teacher training and data-driven insights across all campuses.
Many districts are now utilizing integrated professional development and data platforms to standardize these efforts. Happy to share some insights on how others manage this if useful."
2. Sustaining 1:1 Device Program and Classroom Technology Integration
What Rockdale County Public Schools Is Doing
Rockdale County Public Schools maintains its "Learning Reimagined" program, deploying personal computers to students in grades 2-12 and iPads to students in grades K-1. All classrooms are equipped with interactive projection systems, internet-connected devices, and other tools to support active learning.
Key Buyer Personas
- Chief Technology Officer (Michael Rotjan)
- Director of Technology Operations and Digital Learning (Thomas Schie)
- Network Manager (Brad Rudisail)
- Data Resource Specialist (Suzanne Stripling)
Operational Challenges
- Managing a large inventory of diverse devices and coordinating software updates across multiple operating systems.
- Ensuring consistent network connectivity and adequate bandwidth for all devices during peak usage periods.
- Providing timely technical support and troubleshooting for device issues without disrupting instructional time.
Relevant Company Categories for Rockdale County Public Schools
- Student Device Management Platforms
- Classroom AV Vendors
- Network Security Solutions
- IT Helpdesk Software
- Asset Management Systems
Relevant Companies
Jamf — Provides comprehensive Apple device management solutions for K-12 schools.
Relevant for: Managing, securing, and deploying the deployed iPads for K-1 students.
Lightspeed Systems — Offers web filtering, student safety, and device management tools for student devices.
Relevant for: Ensuring safe and responsible use of student laptops and iPads across the district.
Promethean — Supplies interactive flat panels and classroom display technology.
Relevant for: Enhancing interactive learning experiences in classrooms and integrating with existing devices.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Understood Rockdale County Public Schools continues its 1:1 device program for K-12 students and maintains advanced classroom technology.
Districts with extensive device deployments often encounter operational hurdles like inconsistent network performance and high demand for technical support.
Many are finding success by centralizing network management and leveraging proactive device health monitoring. Could be worth discussing strategies that maintain seamless instructional continuity."
3. Expanding STEM Education and Specialized Learning Environments
What Rockdale County Public Schools Is Doing
Rockdale County Public Schools is expanding its STEM offerings, notably with a new middle grades program (Grades 4-8) for the Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The district also supports various Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways across its high schools.
Key Buyer Personas
- Superintendent (Shirley Chesser)
- Chief Technology Officer (Michael Rotjan)
- Director of Technology Operations and Digital Learning (Thomas Schie)
- Director of Information and Digital Learning (Kaitlin Silva)
Operational Challenges
- Equipping specialized STEM labs and CTAE programs with up-to-date, industry-standard technology and experimental tools.
- Integrating diverse software and hardware requirements for various STEM pathways with the existing network infrastructure.
- Ensuring proper professional development for staff teaching in new or expanded specialized learning environments.
Relevant Company Categories for Rockdale County Public Schools
- STEM Education Solution Providers
- Laboratory Equipment Suppliers
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) Curriculum
- Educational Robotics Kits
- Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality for Education
Relevant Companies
Pasco Scientific — Provides data acquisition systems, sensors, and equipment for science education.
Relevant for: Equipping STEM labs with tools for hands-on, inquiry-based scientific investigations.
VEX Robotics — Offers robotics kits and curriculum for STEM education and competitions.
Relevant for: Supporting engaging and practical learning experiences in engineering and computer science.
Lab-Aids — Develops science kits and curriculum that promote active learning and critical thinking.
Relevant for: Providing structured, hands-on learning materials for expanded STEM programs.
Sample Outbound Angle
"It's clear Rockdale County Public Schools is committed to expanding STEM education, particularly with the new RMSST middle grades program for 2026-2027.
Schools developing advanced STEM environments often face challenges in procuring and integrating specialized, up-to-date equipment and software.
We often see districts benefit from comprehensive lab planning and vendor coordination early in the expansion phase. Would you be open to a brief conversation about best practices for successful STEM program scaling?"
4. Facilities Renovation and Modernization
What Rockdale County Public Schools Is Doing
Rockdale County Public Schools is undertaking renovation and modification projects at various elementary schools, including Barksdale Elementary School, with work permitted to commence after May 30, 2026, for the 2025-2026 school year. This indicates ongoing efforts to update and improve school infrastructure.
Key Buyer Personas
- Chief Operations Officer (Phil Budensiek)
- Executive Director of Facilities and Grounds (Bruce Stuart)
- Director of Facilities (Ken Bohannon)
- Director of Purchasing (Marki Dixon)
Operational Challenges
- Coordinating construction and renovation schedules with active school calendars to minimize disruption to learning environments.
- Ensuring new facility upgrades integrate seamlessly with existing or planned technology infrastructure, including network and security systems.
- Managing vendor timelines and material procurement to keep projects on schedule and within budget.
Relevant Company Categories for Rockdale County Public Schools
- Construction Management Software
- Integrated Security System Vendors
- Building Automation Systems
- Facilities Maintenance Services
- Energy Management Solutions
Relevant Companies
Procore — Provides cloud-based construction management software to streamline project workflows and communication.
Relevant for: Managing the various renovation and modification projects at elementary schools.
Johnson Controls — Offers integrated building technologies, including HVAC, security, and fire safety systems.
Relevant for: Modernizing and centralizing control of building systems within renovated facilities.
Axis Communications — Specializes in network video solutions, including security cameras and access control systems.
Relevant for: Enhancing campus safety and surveillance infrastructure during and after facility upgrades.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed Rockdale County Public Schools has renovation and modification projects underway, such as at Barksdale Elementary, for the 2025-2026 timeframe.
Coordinating these projects often presents challenges in maintaining operational continuity and integrating modern building systems efficiently.
We've seen many districts mitigate these issues through advanced project management platforms and comprehensive technology infrastructure planning during the renovation phase. Could be worth discussing some approaches if useful."
Final Take
Rockdale County Public Schools is actively engaged in modernizing its educational and physical infrastructure throughout 2026. The district's commitment to its 2025-2026 District Priorities, coupled with sustained 1:1 device programs and STEM expansion, creates clear operational pressure for robust technology and facilities solutions. Vendors who can provide integrated platforms for student achievement, device management, network optimization, and smart building systems are well-positioned to support RCPS's ongoing initiatives.
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Identify school buying signals like grants, contract renewals, and more, find key decision-maker contacts, and reach out to the right schools at the right time with Pintel.ai.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Rockdale County Public Schools' main focus areas for 2026? Rockdale County Public Schools' main focus areas for 2026 include student achievement, behavior, staff development, maintaining 1:1 technology, expanding STEM, and facilities modernization.
How does Rockdale County Public Schools manage its student devices? Rockdale County Public Schools manages student devices through its "Learning Reimagined" program, providing personal computers to grades 2-12 and iPads to K-1 students.
Are there current facility modernization projects at Rockdale County Public Schools? Yes, Rockdale County Public Schools has ongoing renovation and modification projects at elementary schools, with work at Barksdale Elementary School permitted after May 30, 2026.
Who is responsible for technology procurement at Rockdale County Public Schools? The Technology Department, led by the Chief Technology Officer Michael Rotjan, and the Purchasing Department, led by Marki Dixon, are key contacts for technology procurement at Rockdale County Public Schools.
What types of technology vendors does Rockdale County Public Schools typically work with? Rockdale County Public Schools works with vendors for device management, network infrastructure, classroom AV, and specialized STEM education solutions to support its 1:1 program and academic goals.