Why Most Schools Get Tech Director Hiring Wrong—And How to Get It Right

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex Inman and Bob Cireddu explore the challenges and strategies for hiring a modern K-12 technology director. Together, they:

• Examine how the role of technology director has evolved from its origins in the late 1990s/early 2000s to today's complex demands
• Discuss why traditional staffing models (1 tech person per 1,500 devices in schools vs. 1:60 in corporate settings) create unique challenges in educational environments
• Highlight the three key pillars of an effective tech director: IT management expertise, educational technology leadership, and strategic vision
• Explore the differences between hiring candidates from corporate IT backgrounds versus those with educational experience
• Consider the importance of soft skills and school culture understanding in technology leadership roles
• Delve into solutions like managed service providers (MSPs) and EdTech audits to support successful technology leadership transitions
• Share practical resources for schools, including job description repositories and hiring best practices

The hosts conclude by announcing a two-month pause in new episodes, encouraging listeners to stay connected through LinkedIn and their rebroadcast episodes.

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Show Notes:

Other Resources:

• Alex Inman on LinkedIn
• Robert Cireddu on LinkedIn
• Educational Collaborators Website
• Educational Collaborators on LinkedIn
• EduTech Group Website
• STS Education  Website
• STS Education on LinkedIn

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