The opening meeting for the SVRTC 2023-204 school year was held at Longwood University and was attended by 26 people, including those from 13 SVRTC school divisions: Amelia County Public Schools, Buckingham County Public Schools, Brunswick County Public Schools, Colonial Heights Public Schools, Cumberland County Public Schools, Danville Public Schools, Lunenburg County Public Schools, Greensville County Public Schools, Nottoway County Public Schools, Petersburg Public Schools, Prince Edward County Public Schools, Prince George County Public Schools, and Henry County Public Schools.
The meeting had two programs. The first program was presented by Deidre Holmberg from Amazon Web Services (AWS) on their Spark program. Ms. Holmberg explained the AWS Spark program is a free online program designed by teachers to provide school systems with cloud-focused content, tools, and resources. Geared for age 13 and up, the program curriculum is meant to foster student interest in future career cloud computing fields. Each of the units were designed to show students many ways cloud technology is infused into our everyday lives which includes areas like healthcare and sports. Ms. Holmberg said that AWS is working with the Virginia Department of Education to make the different units SOL-friendly for Virginia educators.
Next, Britney Garritano from Vivacity, presented on technology hardware and programs for schools with competitive pricing. Ms. Garritano mentioned that the most competitive prices where on Chromebook bundles. They also offer different types of technology and case options to help school systems maintain their computers. Ms. Garritano also explained to members that Vivacity also offers a Student Repair Academy. Student Repair Academy is an online self-paced learning program that provides students with the knowledge and technical skills they need to operate a student-led repair center for school systems computers. The meeting ended with members winning door prizes provided by Vivacity, as well as enjoying lunch with new and returning SVRTC members.