Modeling Student Tech in Action

The student tech team at Cornerstone’s Adams-Young Middle School not only serves as a junior IT department, troubleshooting computer issues for their peers and teachers, but the students also have fun building robots and creating their own Minecraft game. Listen to students and their teacher talk about it.

Paseo Academy was a recipient of the 2024 Ciena Solutions Challenge Sustainability Award for their submission on empowering students through esports in education. Their esports initiative combines gaming with a purpose, promoting quality education and equitable opportunities for students with tech skills. This program highlights the value of creating a safe, supportive environment for skill-building and networking while giving back to the community.

At Adams-Young Middle School, students are gaining hands-on IT experience through the student tech team, where seventh and eighth graders serve as junior IT support. These students also lead extracurricular activities such as Minecraft and robotics, fostering community and teamwork. Students even took the initiative to build their own Minecraft world and organize a gaming tournament, blending technical skills with creativity and collaboration.

The student tech team at Central Middle School is a group of 10 students who produce the The Student Tech Team Podcast, which is focused on technology and its impact on society.

Central Middle School was a recipient of the 2024 Ciena Solutions Challenge Sustainability Award for their submission on supporting a healthy school community. Their school was facing a vaping issue in restrooms and gym locker rooms, making some students uncomfortable and hesitant to speak up. To address this, the vice principal challenged students to create an anti-vaping campaign. In response, students designed posters with QR codes linking to information on vaping’s harmful effects, aiming to discourage use and raise awareness.

School-based IT technician Pat Lowe and Surge Squad student tech team member Chloe Parks discuss how their school empowered their student tech team members to repair devices under warranty by earning CTL Designation, and how this has enabled them to take on leadership roles for device care with their classmates.

Verizon Innovative Learning Schools Coach Susan Gregory and school-based IT technician Tom Hollins discuss how they have involved students in repairing devices to solve challenges they were having around device repair turnaround time and cost.

Former Assistant Principal Maria Montero discusses why student tech teams are essential in her school, helping to manage devices, troubleshoot issues, and support teachers with technology integration. At Mater Academy, the “Genius Squad” has grown to nearly 100 students who assist with device rollouts, training, and technical support, gaining both technical and leadership skills. Their work fosters problem-solving, communication, and real-world experience, preparing them for future careers while easing the workload of school IT staff.