The cornerstone of technology for most of us is enclosed and proprietary – even if to us, we are open and innovative, freely exchanging the information we gather to our community of peers.

Moving from health-care to education I see that very clearly.  Still internal to MIS or administrative technology we tend to close ourselves off, as we are right to do, in order to protect the network and our resources, and yes – we should still do this, but with an open mind.

Fast forward a bit to our implementation of a considerably business oriented product, and from our department – advertised that way as well.  Microsoft Lync would step into Monroe City Schools and help to enable cross department collaboration, between MIS, Business, Curriculum, etc – for who else, than our administrators and key business personnel.

That’s not whats grown, and looking at the larger picture with an open mind, that’s not what ever should have been targeted by us, because of the shift in who our mission and technologies are designed for in education – the students.

This one picture tells the story – breaking down the walls to collaborate innovatively and differently to expose students to technology they’ll see the rest of their lives.  The interaction and engagement is on so much higher of a level with the students than our administrative people ever really show.

My role – MIS Director, it’s always been delivering highly scalable solutions that are rock solid in security and functionality to business professionals, with the goal of carrying out the organizations mission.  Technology in education has opened my eyes to see there is so much more possible, and its at the very basic levels that we can encourage and grow students – all while seamlessly providing rock solid technology at the base level.  That’s our new challenge, and one that’s been so far unique and inspiring to a technology professional!

/Josh