Increasingly, districts are providing Internet access through a network, which requires more sophisticated support than a single modem connection. Greater dependence on networks and computers for basic functions raises the stakes if the equipment breaks down.
Most experts say it's essential to have technical experts on staff.
The share of schools with full-time network administrators, meanwhile, climbed from 9 percent to 29 percent. Such schools may be relying on a combination of district and school personnel and outside vendors. A nationwide shortage of informational-technology specialists is making it more difficult to hire qualified people. Money is also a factor. Large and better-funded districts can generally afford to hire a small, if overburdened, technical staff.