As promised in December, I’ll be highlighting a Department Director each month. For the first month, I’d like you to get to know Georgette Benton, our Technology Director and Facilities Manager.
Georgette was referred by one of her instructors for a volunteer position in IT during the first year I was at AOWL. We both laugh about it now, because her volunteer interview turned into a job offer quickly. She was in school working on her Computer Science degree. I hired her as a part-time teacher associate and volunteer IT professional. Once she graduated, she began working as half-time teacher associate and half-time Technology Manager. As the school grew quickly, so did our need for a full-time Technology Manager. When we moved to the Minnetonka Campus, she took the lead in setting up all our technology. She was clearly directing and solving for our technology needs, and she was promoted to Technology Director. This year, Georgette added facility management to her workload. She and Joe, our janitor, work together to ensure we keep our facility cleaned and sanitized.
Georgette keeps our hardware, software, and technology infrastructure running smoothly. Last spring when we suddenly went into distance learning, Georgette drove to student homes when needed to ensure all students had access to the technology necessary for learning remotely. She problem solves in the moment when staff or students are struggling with their technology. I may or may not present her with more than my fair share of problems to solve. She never hesitates. Additionally, Georgette is responsible for our security systems and key management.
Georgette served in the Minnesota National Guards for over 6 years, reaching the level of Sergeant. She came very close to being deployed to Africa once. Her deployment was canceled just days before she was scheduled to leave.
Georgette loves to share her love of technology. She works closely with student interns and facilitates the student Yearbook Club. She created a Maker Space in our Learning Commons for all students to use (except during this COVID year - hopefully we’ll be able to share equipment and supplies next school year). A Maker Space is a place where you can make things for learning, exploring, and sharing. It's a place for hands-on learning with all the tools for creativity. Ours includes 3D printing, audio-visual equipment, hand tools crafts, STEM activities, and more.
We are fortunate to have Georgette at Academy of Whole Learning. Thanks, Georgette--for all you do!
