As schools increasingly incorporate technology into their classrooms, student tech teams become invaluable resources in supporting both students and teachers. They can assist with device management, troubleshoot technical issues and ensure that technology is effectively integrated into the learning process. These tech teams offer a unique opportunity for students to take on leadership roles and develop valuable skills like problem-solving, teamwork, communication and critical thinking, in addition to increasing their technical know-how. By actively managing technology resources, students gain real-world experience that prepares them for future careers and responsibilities.
Recently, EdSurge spoke to Maria Montero, the assistant principal at Mater Academy Charter School, a Verizon Innovative Learning School in South Florida. For the past decade, Verizon has collaborated with Digital Promise to get internet-connected devices into the hands of students and to enhance how teachers use technology in the classroom. Montero offers insights into building an effective student tech team responsible for managing thousands of devices while supporting the faculty and student body with a variety of tech-related services.
EdSurge: What role does the student tech team play at your school?
Montero: Before Mater Academy became a Verizon Innovative Learning School, our IT person already had a lot on his plate, with 135 teachers and 300 different classrooms. When the middle school became a Verizon Innovative Learning School, that meant adding 1,200 extra iPads to the list of devices. And when the high school joined the one-to-one setup, there were an additional 1,800 devices. That meant 3,000 extra devices needed to be maintained! It just wasn’t practical for our one IT person to be solely responsible. This is what makes the student tech team so vital.
In the beginning, our Genius Squad — what the students named their tech team — included 13 students. We have now grown that team to nearly 100 students spread across eight class periods. Our Genius Squad is coached by two faculty: the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools coach and the Demonstration School liaison (roles that support the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program implementation in the school). The tech team and coaches also collaborate with the IT person. But it is the Genius Squad that serves as the boots on the ground.
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