Powering Education

In 2026, technology is woven into every aspect of the educational experience. Chalkboards have been replaced by smartboards, pen and paper swapped for tablets and laptops, and even lunch payments are now made with a swipe card. These innovations have transformed the educational landscape. As these changes unfolded, the Western New York Regional Information Center (WNYRIC), a division of Erie 1 BOCES, has remained dedicated to ensuring schools have the power to innovate and integrate new technology.

WNYRIC provides schools with a wide range of technology solutions, from visitor sign-in systems to training teachers on the latest educational apps. In total, WNYRIC offers more than 1,500 services and connects schools with technology vendors worldwide, offering the best, safest, and most cost-effective options. Behind this work is a team of more than 360 technology experts serving districts across the region. These professionals install and maintain internet and Wi-Fi, host and secure servers, and manage data and software applications. They also assist districts in procuring laptops, screens, printers, and phones, and some districts even have WNYRIC field techs working alongside their teachers and students doing day-today tech support. The Service Desk receives tens of thousands of calls and emails annually to help support everything from password resets to resolving larger issues and outages. “The depth of knowledge within our teams is extraordinary,” said WNYRIC Network Manager Lynn Reed. “From infrastructure to instructional technology, WNYRIC brings unmatched knowledge and commitment to every district we serve.” Powering technology for 108 school districts is no small feat.

Where WNYRIC truly shines is in cooperative purchasing and resource sharing. By negotiating contracts and licenses regionally, WNYRIC secures lower rates than individual districts could achieve on their own. Districts also benefit from the immense wealth of knowledge housed at WNYRIC, allowing school personnel to focus on students while WNYRIC handles the tech. Dave Kajdasz, WNYRIC associate director of security and networking remarked, “...technology evolves rapidly, and WNYRIC stays ahead of the curve. It’s our ability to adapt and innovate that ensures schools have cutting-edge solutions that meet today’s needs and anticipate tomorrow’s challenges.” This pooling of resources ensures greater access to technology for students and teachers, driving equity across districts and preparing learners to leverage the tools of tomorrow.  

"From infrastructure to instructional technology, WNYRIC brings unmatched knowledge and commitment to every district we serve.” - WNYRIC Network Manager Lynn Reed