“My vision for the STT was to allow students to take ownership of technology in our school, establishing rules, systems, and procedures around responsible and safe technology use, while also developing real world skills like leadership and communication. Our Tech Team is supporting students and staff, creating a positive school climate and culture all while having a little fun!” – Jennifer Baruffi, Coach, Pilla Middle School
Even more exciting? This story is best told by the students themselves.
As members of the Student Tech Team (STT), we are students stepping into a role that requires responsibility, commitment, and a willingness to learn. We’re not just fixing devices—we’re building skills that could open doors to future careers in technology.
We are currently the only school in the nation piloting the new CTL Curriculum. This opportunity has given us hands-on experience with real device repair—from replacing keys and screens to understanding internal components.
Through this certification process, we’ve developed patience, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills. We’ve learned how to collaborate as a team, communicate effectively, and take pride in doing meaningful work that supports our entire school community.
One of the most exciting parts of being on the Tech Team is having the opportunity to lead beyond our peers. Recently, we stepped into a new role—presenting at staff meetings.
At first, the idea of presenting to teachers felt intimidating. But we quickly realized that we had valuable knowledge to share. We are supporting teachers, building confidence in ourselves, strengthening student-teacher relationships, and making technology more seamless for everyone.
Following a winter initiative with our fellow student peers centered around cleaning and repairing their tablets, we created a school-wide system that made device readiness something to celebrate. That’s how the READY acronym was born:
R – Ready battery
E – Exterior case free of stickers and writing
A – All keys in place
D – Display screen free of cracks
Y – Your hinges intact
Students whose tablets met the READY criteria were recognized and awarded different prizes.
Instead of focusing on what students were doing wrong, we highlighted and celebrated what they were doing right. This small shift made a big difference.
“Being a tech team member at Pilla is really cool because I’ve always been good at tech but I never could put it to use and help people. It’s nice how I can be there for students and staff that need me. It gives me the chance to stand out at Pilla.” – Grace, Pilla Student Tech Team member
At Pilla Middle School, the STT is working to build a new, exciting schoolwide culture where students take pride in their work, support one another, and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
Through this and other student-centered initiatives, students have tools to take shared ownership and responsibility. They’re building technical and leadership skills, professionalism, and a sense of service.
When students are trusted with responsibility, they rise to the occasion.
None of this would have been possible without the support and guidance of our Instructional Technology Coach (ITC), Jennifer Baruffi. Ms. Baruffi believed in us and gave us the space to lead, and encouraged us to think creatively.
Want to know more about fostering student agency through technology? Find more resources on the Powerful Learning landing page.
