Thanks to a new elective class at PCMS, students and staff can now benefit from technology assistance during the school day, while students enrolled in the class are gaining valuable, real-life work experience ... for a grade!
The class, known as Tech Squad, is designed for students who have shown or have the potential to complete high levels of problem solving with a respectful attitude, all while having the ability to organize and work well with others. Similar to a work study or internship, students are using knowledge they already possess, while learning even more "on the job."
Working from the IDEALab under the watchful eye of PCMS teacher and IDEALab coordinator Mr. Apollos, members of the Tech Squad are available to help their peers with projects, supplies and technology associated with class projects in the lab. Beyond that, they may also be dispatched throughout the school to lend a hand, and their knowledge, to teachers in their native classrooms.
In addition to the support and lab assistance, members of the Tech Squad are required to develop a plan and complete a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) project of their own. They clock in and out each day that they work, and will have regular evaluations with Mr. Apollos. And at the end of the semester, they'll get a grade that will be part of their school record.
For many students, taking Tech Squad as an elective was a natural choice. Some will be writing training modules for students and staff, while others will be using their skills to assist others in real-time.
Many of the students in Tech Squad have already been involved in Robotics, while others honed their tech skills at home on their own. Regardless of their background, this is a great opportunity for students and customers alike!