Schools

Patch Whiz Kids of the Week: El Crystal's Tech Squad

The students on the Tech Squad are prime examples of why more integration of technology in classroom curriculum benefits all students, the school's principal says.

Each week, San Bruno Patch will feature an amazing kid, youth group, teen or sports team that wows us with their accomplishments. 

This week, we feature the Tech Squad, a special group of the students at the school who help show why El Crystal is the model school in the district for technology.

Patch Whiz Kids of the Week

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Name/Age: Tech Squad, ages 9-12

School: El Crystal Elementary School

Accomplishment: El Crystal’s Tech Squad comprises 24 fourth- through sixth-graders who set up laptops for teachers, do minor troubleshooting and help the younger kids with their technology skills.

It’s not just all fun and games for them, though, said Principal Skip Johnson. 

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The students have to apply to be on the Tech Squad, and they have to maintain a C or better in their grades. 

Not only that, but they gain valuable skills helping out with the school’s technology equipment. They are serving fellow students, engaged in 21st century learning skills and assisting teachers, especially because many of the Tech Squad members are able to teach the younger students how the computer programs work.

Key to Awesomeness: “It’s the fact that they volunteer and they’re interested, and they’re highly motivated," Johnson said. "There is one kid who actually struggled a bit before, and I’ve seen it boost his confidence.”

Overall, Johnson said, they’ve helped boost the school’s push for the integration of more technology in students' education.


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