South’s new IT Help Desk Club, sponsored by Algebra 1 and trades math teacher Nicholas Rayola, gives students a chance to learn technology hands-on through skills such as laptop repairing. Some tasks include replacing laptop screens, batteries, and keyboards.
“We worked on a couple different laptop models. Right now the students are creating a digital portfolio, so when they leave high school they can have this portfolio to take to an IT company or business, so they can show them what skills they have,” Rayola said.
The club will eventually turn into a class next school year, which will be held in the media center. There will be a classroom component where students can earn IT certifications, allowing them to possibly one up those in search for a job post-graduation.
The club is fortunate enough to have sponsors outside of the district, which tremendously helps members of the IT Help Desk Club.
“We are partnered with an IT company in Morris called Simple Communications. They have given us a lot of tech through donations and come to our school to be guest speakers. They hired two graduates from our high school already,” Rayola said.
With the help of Simple Communications, students may have a chance to get prepared for life post-graduation if they decide to pursue the technology field.
“At their place they train you to take the same certifications that our kids will be in high school. When our kids graduate high school they will be ready to go right into the employment field without much training,” Rayola said.
Assistant Principal Bill Bicker is also a big advocate for the IT Help Desk Club.
“This club, and potential class, will benefit students and staff in many ways,” Bicker said. “First and foremost it will provide all students with more diversity in class choices, specifically with a class that reflects modern work. Furthermore, the students in the class will have the opportunity to earn CompTIA A+ 1101 and 1102 certifications. This can help them on the path to a career in Information Technology.”
Although the club is planned to become a class next school year, a lot of challenges still remain to reach this goal.
“The plan for next year is for the club to become an actual class during the school day. It first has to be approved by the Board of Education, however. If it is approved we will then identify the best location for the class and then assign an instructor. It would then function like any other elective,” Bicker said.
This club was initiated by the district, and is also sponsored by Building Technology Leader Allison Wyderski. She is very fond of the subject and is happy to share it with students.
“My interest in IT and tech support sparked from a fascination with how technology shapes our daily lives. I love solving problems and helping others navigate tech challenges. Sponsoring this club allows me to share my passion and empower students with valuable skills in a constantly evolving field,” Wyderski said.
Wyderski is really excited about the club, and believes it is a great chance for students to gain both experience and expertise.
“Students should join to gain practical tech skills, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and connect with like-minded peers. If someone is unsure about joining, I’d encourage them to think about the opportunities for personal and professional growth,” Wyderski said.
The IT Help Desk Club meets every Thursday in the media center from 2:30 to 3:30. Everyone is welcome to come out and join, no matter the experience level or prior knowledge.
“This is a lifelong skill. You may need this later in your life because everyone uses laptops or computers. Maybe when you have your own kids and drop a keyboard or do something, how would you repair that?” Rayola said.
