Onekama Consolidated Schools Fills Key Technology Coordinator Position

 

August 2006

Onekama School Superintendent Kevin Hughes announced this week that Onekama schools has filled the key position of Technology Coordinator.  Bruce Peabody, who held the job from its inception in 1997 until 2002 before leaving to fill a similar role at Interlochen Fine Arts Academy, has returned to the school, which is situated high above Portage Lake in the Village of Onekama.

 

Bruce, who retired from Bear Lake Schools in ’97 was born and raised in Royal Oak, MI and attended Ferris State University where he received his teaching certificate.  He received his Masters Degree in administration from Central Michigan University.  Over the years, he furthered his education by becoming vocationally certified in accounting and computer science.

 

Gina Hagen, the school principal states that, "Mr. Peabody is a wonderful addition to our Onekama team.  Bruce stays on top of technology trends and is always looking for ways to incorporate technology in the classroom.  Bruce appreciates technology and understands its importance in education and in today’s world.  Mr. Peabody is a true asset to the students, teachers, and community.”

 

During his previous stint in the position, Bruce developed what he calls the “Tech Squad”.  This small group of students who showed an aptitude for not only working with computer technology, but also adept at working with people, received invaluable training in the world of computers as they applied in a large network as found in a technology efficient school such as Onekama.  The students, under Bruce’s capable direction would trouble shoot, configure computers; work with teachers and others in all areas of computer technology.  Each year, five or six carefully chosen students would fill this role and receive high school credit towards graduation.  Several students have gone on after graduation from Onekama High School to take positions in business and industry as computer technicians.  Under his guidance, Onekama’s Tech Squad will return this fall.

 

Besides his vast knowledge of computers, networking, and their use in a 21st Century, school Bruce also brings a well developed cooperative working relationship with Technology Directors Tom Johnson of Brethren/Bear Lake and Roy Anciso from Manistee Intermediate School District.

 

School Superintendent Kevin Hughes relates that, “Bruce Peabody is a unique Technology Coordinator as he uses his thirty years of teaching experience to help integrate technology into the classrooms and offices of our district. His ability to cut through the technical garble and explain it in English allows all people to be able to use technology irregardless of their technical skills.”

See Technology Plan for 2010-2012        http://www.onekama.k12.mi.us