What happens when your entire school staff is just you—and you’re responsible for launching a brand-new campus with zero tech infrastructure?
That was the situation facing Graham Browne, founder of Forte Preparatory Academy Charter School in New York City. And it’s why he turned to Inspiroz.
Background
Forte Prep began as a vision—three fifth-grade classrooms with big plans to grow each year.
But as a brand-new school with no in-house IT staff and a tight startup budget, Browne needed more than just equipment.
He needed a strategic technology partner who could help build systems that would scale as his school grew.
That’s where Inspiroz stepped in.
The Challenge
Launching a new charter school is no small feat. For Browne, technology presented one of the biggest unknowns. There were no systems in place.
No internet, no Chromebooks, no printers—nothing.
Beyond purchasing equipment, he needed guidance on:
- E-Rate planning
- Bulk procurement
- Building out the right infrastructure
- Creating a sustainable, scalable IT roadmap
And he had to do it all while managing daily operations solo.
“The scope of services Inspiroz offers really filled a lot of gaps for a staff that was just me,” Browne said.
The Solution
Inspiroz partnered closely with Browne from day one. Working with Lars Beck, Inspiroz President and former charter school leader, and Milan Patel, Inspiroz CEO, the team helped craft a comprehensive technology plan to launch the school.
This included:
- Building an annual purchasing plan for staff and student devices
- Creating a network and infrastructure blueprint
- Consulting on the E-Rate eligible equipment list
- Guiding procurement for cost-effective, high-quality devices
As Forte Prep expanded each year, Inspiroz adjusted their support—developing a technology roadmap that evolved with the school.
When the school began planning a move to a larger facility, Inspiroz provided critical support:
- Designing voice and data jack placements
- Outlining infrastructure needs
- Compiling a full equipment inventory for the new space
The Result
- Smart Tech Budgeting: Inspiroz evaluates the performance and lifespan of all tech assets. With real-time data on repair frequency and service costs, they offer budget recommendations to optimize spending.
- Reliable 1:1 Model: Forte Prep achieved a 1:1 Chromebook-to-student ratio in key subjects, enabling more dynamic instruction in math and digital literacy.
- Onsite IT Support that Cares: An Inspiroz consultant is onsite weekly to support staff, solve problems, and maintain equipment.
“When our onsite tech consultant is here, they pitch in more than expected and take proactive steps to prevent issues,” Browne said. “They’ve also built strong relationships with our staff.”
- Future-Ready Tech Infrastructure: As Forte Prep adds new grades and prepares for a facility move, they now have a partner who supports them every step of the way—from strategy to sockets.
A True Technology Partner
From day one of Forte Prep’s launch to the school’s current growth phase, Inspiroz has been more than an IT vendor.
They’re an embedded part of the school’s DNA—helping to build, maintain, and evolve a system that supports every student and staff member.
“We relied on them as a strategic partner, and the pricing was right in line with our budget,” said Browne. “They’ve delivered.”
Planning to expand your school or launch a new campus?
Find out how Inspiroz can support your technology journey.
Contact Lars Beck at (610) 387-6014 or
email : lbeck@inspiroz.com.
