The beginning of the school year is right around the corner - that means tech directors are busy with tasks to prepare for the school year. Thirty years ago when large networks and data systems made their way into education, school districts began hiring tech directors to assist in the implementation of technology in schools. Since EdTech has changed the landscape of education, it has also changed the role of the tech director. What was once an IT-focused role has now progressed into a position responsible for funding, training, research, and so much more. It may be easy to overlook all the hard work tech directors put into their systems. Over the summer, you’ll find them working hard to prepare for the upcoming school year. 


Reimaging & Updating Computers

Over the summer, you will find tech directors reimaging all of the computers in the building. This includes removing all of the current software on the system and reinstalling it. This also includes updating any apps, programs, monitoring software, and more. With thousands of devices to address, you can assume this is a very timely process for any tech director. The purpose of reimaging computers is to ensure the proper programs are up-to-date and installed on each device to ensure a smooth transition for every student and teacher. 


Preparing for Device Deployment

Tech directors are also occupied with cleaning and repairing Chromebooks and other EdTech devices to prepare for deployment. This includes charging all devices, tagging, entering their information into device management software, reassigning the devices to specific students, auditing all devices and device carts, and more. This also involves collecting all of the old, and retired devices and listing them on auction sites if applicable. 


Setting Up Classrooms

At the end of the school year, it’s common for teachers to rearrange or organize their classrooms. Tech directors are responsible for ensuring that all of the devices are properly set up and functioning. This also includes properly naming all devices and ensuring printers, projectors, and smartboards are functional before students are back in the building. 

Revise and Update Training Materials

Creating and updating Chromebook training materials is one of the many tasks Tech Directors focus on during the summer. At the beginning of the school year, it’s vital for teachers and students to understand the proper way to use and treat their EdTech devices and this starts with proper training. 


Installing Cameras & Infrastructure

You will also find tech directors installing new cameras around campus and ensuring the wireless infrastructure is in place before the beginning of the school year. 


Sometimes their responsibilities can go overlooked, during the summer tech directors are busy preparing for the upcoming school year and ensuring that systems are updated and stable before students start to roll in on the first day. Thank you for everything that you do!