Cane Tech Squad laptop superheroes keep Chromebooks running

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WILMINGTON — The beginning of the school year found students at Wilmington High School empowered to expand their learning beyond the school day to include anytime, anywhere learning when all students were issued Chromebooks.

Becoming a 1:1 (one student to one computer) school building has allowed for additional opportunities to increase student engagement, productivity through personalized learning, and equal access to technology.

At the same time, however, the need for timely computer updates, maintenance and repair has grown.

Working behind the scenes is the Cane Tech Squad Help Desk, a unique support system that helps to assure the technology needs of teachers and students are met in an effective and timely manner.

The Cane Tech Squad is a team of 14 high school students enrolled in a technology internship class where students gain real world opportunities by manning a help desk, processing help tickets, visiting work environments, and helping students and staff with technology issues.

According to Library Media Specialist Steve Reed, who teaches the class, Cane Tech Squad students typically make Chromebook repairs, (including broken screens) within one hour. They also coordinate the circulation of loaner Chromebooks to ensure students always have access to technology for their learning.

In the event that tech squad students are unable to resolve a problem, they forward the help ticket to Brian Roberts or Don Sutton – the district technology support staff.

In addition to the hands on learning experience, tech squad students are also required to keep a blog documenting their learning experiences and take online courses about computer coding and programming.

According to Reed, the Cane Tech Squad has definitely been an asset in meeting the technology needs of WHS students and staff.

“I can’t imagine implementing a 1:1 program without the help of the Cane Tech Squad,” said Reed. “These students have become experts at supporting the EdTech needs of our building. And, it’s not uncommon to see several of the students spending time before and after school to make sure students and teachers’ technology needs are met.”

Reed went on to share that several Cane Tech Squad students have gone on to make presentations during staff meetings teaching teachers technology skills.

Information for this article was provided by Diana Miller, who coordinates communications for several area schools.

Reversing the roles — the Cane Tech Squad (CTS) takes on the role of teacher and shares technology tips with staff members. From left are Mr. Tomlin, Mr. Geggie, CTS member Aaron Osborn, Mrs. Morris, Mr. McNally, Mr. Williams and Mrs. Goodbar.
http://aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2017/03/web1_Tech-Squad-1.jpgReversing the roles — the Cane Tech Squad (CTS) takes on the role of teacher and shares technology tips with staff members. From left are Mr. Tomlin, Mr. Geggie, CTS member Aaron Osborn, Mrs. Morris, Mr. McNally, Mr. Williams and Mrs. Goodbar. Courtesy photos

CTS member Avery Greenlees provides one-on-one technology instruction to Mr. Tomlin.
http://aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2017/03/web1_Tech-Squad-3.jpgCTS member Avery Greenlees provides one-on-one technology instruction to Mr. Tomlin. Courtesy photos

By Diana Miller

For The News Journal

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