NEW PHONE SYSTEM for our church and school.
VOIP (voice over internet protocol) phone systems have been a “thing” for decades. Our phone system, especially the voicemail features, have been unreliable for several years and the manufacturer no longer provided ongoing support for our old analog system. With recent upgrades to the computer network and other systems on our campus, it was a perfect time to make the move.
Some details:
- Our phone numbers remain the same: dial (219) 362-3627 to easily reach the church or school. (219) 362-6692 for the school. (219) 362-2237 to send a fax to the school office.
- Some phone extensions have changed. (See the list.)
- Voicemail is delivered more reliably to everyone who has an extension, so do NOT hesitate to leave a message!
NEW CONTACT LIST
A team of volunteers led by Pastor Albers has been working throughout the school year to upgrade our computer network to prepare for the changes. We have now removed all of the old Cat3 phone wire and replaced it with Cat6 computer network cable, providing for a variety of configurations in our classrooms. The school office, preschool and Eagle Care have been provided with cordless units that can be used from the library through the north end of the building.
SERVICE PROVIDERS:
- Our new phone system was installed by NewAge Telecom here in La Porte using Spectrum VOIP as the provider. Instead of paying for the system upfront, we are leasing the equipment on a long-term, 60-month lease.
- Our fire alarm system will now be monitored through a cell phone repeater installed in the control panel, eliminating the need for an analog phone connection.
- We are currently working with Surf Internet to upgrade our internet service which is currently provided by Comcast.
- Our total cost for phone and internet service will increase by only $35 per month, once our current Frontier and Comcast services have been cancelled.
If you have any difficulty navigating the new phone menu or reaching the person you need to speak to, please reach out to Jennifer in our church office (churchoffice@stjohnslaporte.org) or speak with Pastor Albers the next time you are at church.
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