My father, Michael Assaf, is known to many as the IT Director for Ludlow Public Schools. Whenever we need to plug in new technology like computers, smartboards, or cameras, he’s there. Technology is the reason for pinpoint learning at Ludlow High School. From the resources to learn on the Chromebooks we’re given to students, to the lessons projected on the smartboards, electronic devices are key to progressive learning.
junior high school
Experience is everything. I’ve been surrounded by technology my whole life. For the past three summers, I’ve worked in the IT department at Ludlow Schools. From outfitting every student with a Chromebook to wiring classrooms and setting up smartboards, IT has taught me many useful skills. It has given me a strong foundation in understanding basic concepts related to electronics.
Setting up computers in classrooms and wiring smartboards has given me essential skills for working in technology. We spoke to Kevin Ferrabello, a Technology Support Specialist who manages a middle school. “Working in IT over the summer gives you a taste of what’s involved with the technology that staff and students use every day during the school year. It can range from the inner workings of Chromebooks and desktop PCs to setting up and maintaining classroom technology. It’s a really great job for students who have a passion for technology,” he said.
This job involves resetting, cleaning and labeling all the Chromebooks used in the middle school. This step will mark the end of an adventurous journey to every classroom to ensure every teacher has the proper electronics setup. With my extensive experience working in the IT department at Ludlow Public Schools, this is a great experience for everyone.
Harrisbrook Elementary School
Once the middle school is complete, your next job will be the new elementary school, Harris Brook. This school has four grades and a ton of electrical components. Every room is equipped with a smartboard and state-of-the-art desktops. Of all the schools, Harris Brook is the most challenging job. This school has a very modern design, but it also comes with fun challenges. Just like the middle school, all the Chromebooks will need to be reset and cleaned. Your final challenge will be to test and complete the smartboards and computers in every room.
“I think any student can do this job,” Assaf says. “Not only will they get experience with technology, but managing a piece of IT will prepare them for any career in the future. Speed, organization, and accountability are all things that are built by working with IT.” Having worked in a large school with a large Chromebook deployment, he knows all of these skills will definitely be put to the test.
high school
I have been working at Ludlow High School for three years and we have recently seen great advancements in technology, including high performance computers and state of the art touch screen smart boards. All of these advancements have been brought to us by the Technology Department.
I spoke with Carlos Sanchez, a senior technology support specialist who works at a high school, who said, “I think that in a school environment, technology can help improve any constraints or limitations that students have in getting the education they need.”
When tasked with electronics, he can set up or fix anything that is at hand. History teacher, Mr. Zianio, has a great review of him: “We need five Carlos. He is constantly in demand throughout the school building as we become more and more technology-oriented.”
Technology is constantly expanding its boundaries and proving to be extremely beneficial to any school. While working with Carlos in the high school, new electronic devices are always a top priority. New computers, projectors, and smart board setups are great resources that I have learned about while working there.
My opinion on technology is solely based on my decision to pursue it as a profession. However, even those who do not work with electronics can benefit greatly from technology. Understanding technology can help you do everyday tasks more efficiently, such as managing your money or staying connected with friends and family. For example, I can talk to my grandparents who live in Portugal because we both can operate technology efficiently. It also opens up opportunities for personal growth, such as learning a new skill or hobby through online courses and tutorials. Exposure to technology improves your problem-solving skills and increases your confidence in using everyday digital tools. In an increasingly digital world, having a good feel for technology improves the overall quality of your daily life.
Technology is important in schools because it makes learning more engaging and accessible. It provides students and teachers with a wide range of resources that make lessons more interesting and easier to understand. Technology allows students to learn at their own pace and gets support much more easily. It also equips students with important digital skills they will need in the future. Technology also improves communication and collaboration between students and teachers, not only in the classroom but with people they will meet in the future.
