The Role of Technology Confidence in Financial Decision-Making

As districts work to improve financial planning, and as schools invest more and more money into student and staff devices, the ability to manage technology effectively is becoming an increasingly important factor. From tracking devices to forecasting technology budgets, confidence in managing these aspects directly impacts financial decision-making and resource allocation.

Yet, district leaders report varying levels of confidence in these areas. While some respondents reported relatively strong confidence in some areas, such as device distribution and compliance with federal reporting requirements, they said they are less confident in areas like forecasting technology budgets. The following data highlights where districts feel most and least prepared to manage their technology infrastructure.

Shifts in Technology Confidence

Since our 2024 K-12 Lens report, confidence has increased in some areas and decreased in others.

Increased Confidence:

• + 3 percentage points: tracking device responsibility and location
• +10 percentage points: forecasting technology budgets 

Decreased Confidence: 

• -9 percentage points: device distribution
• -5 percentage points: federal reporting compliance

Takeaway: Districts are becoming more confident in long-term planning and accountability measures. However, concerns about logistics, regulations, and resource availability may be on the rise.

Addressing Technology Costs: A Key Strategy for Better Financial Decision-Making

When asked to rank their top technology concerns, district leaders once again identified cybersecurity and technology maintenance and sustainability due to lack of funding as their biggest challenges. These financial pressures have remained a priority for the second consecutive year, underscoring the ongoing costs of maintaining and securing district technology.

As districts continue to balance financial planning with technology needs, these concerns highlight the importance of sustainable investments in cybersecurity, infrastructure, and long-term tech budgeting.

Key Takeaway: Improve Technology Budgeting and Asset Management: District leaders report growing confidence in forecasting technology budgets (+10 percentage points from 2024) but remain concerned about cybersecurity and maintenance costs. Strengthening IT asset tracking, compliance monitoring, and cybersecurity investments can help districts avoid financial pitfalls while maximizing the impact of technology and spending.