In October, I was introduced to the Groton-Dunstable community through a local educational newspaper called the Barometer.
This interview was short and sweet, but hope it conveyed my feelings towards both the privilege of working for the Groton-Dunstable Regional School District as well as the general direction we are headed as a technology department.
Interview with the Luke Callahan, Director of Technology
Question: Luke, welcome to Groton Dunstable! Please introduce yourself to the Groton Dunstable community.
Mr. Callahan: I live in Ashland with my family and we are currently in the process of buying a new home. I married my high school sweetheart a month after we graduated from college and remains one of the best decisions I’ve made. We have a four-year-old daughter and her expecting twin girls in late September.
In my past district, I took on the challenge of being the first director of technology. Much like my predecessor, I implemented various systems to improve communication and inefficiencies, as well as built the technology infrastructure from the ground up. I always kept an eye on what will have the greatest impact on the students and staff.
Question: What interested you in the Groton Dunstable position of director of technology?
Mr. Callahan: I enjoyed the time working at my prior district, but when a K-12 position became available at Groton Dunstable, I was intrigued. When I heard the vision for our new district and met our new top-notch team, I knew that I had an amazing opportunity. I am privileged to be a part of it. I appreciate the benefits of the small knit community that strongly support education. Overall, I believe Groton-Dunstable is a great fit and I’m excited to work with all of the amazing educators and administrators in the district. Simply put…I’m thrilled to be here!
Question: Could you discuss how your educational background and experience of prepared you for this position?
Mr. Callahan: I’ve been working with technology in a school setting since I was in high school. The summer before I went to college, I supported my high school tech department and have been tied to this exciting field ever since. Through the years I’ve held various technology-related positions from technology specialist through the director of technology.
Once I began my Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instructional Technology at Framingham State University, I realized that the educational side of technology is where my true passion resides. In addition to always being open to learning opportunities, I love collaborating, innovating and supporting teachers on the use of technology. My passion for supporting an exciting and safe environment surrounding technology always shines through.
At present, there’s a strong technology foundation thanks to the residents of both Groton Dunstable, which will allow our team to support curriculum and instruction at every school with up-to-date devices.
Question: How will you get started? What are some of the first things you will do as our new director of technology?
Mr. Callahan: I believe that technology has the power to enhance learning and allow students to be in deeper engagement with the curriculum. With many of the (Massachusetts Frameworks) standards either requiring or supporting the use of technology, I believe there must be ample support for our teachers, through effective professional development and my openness to listen to any technology ideas or concerns. A goal would be to foster a strong professional learning network for teachers, across the entire district, on the benefits of integrating technology into their lessons. The technology team I have joined this summer is very strong with an immense amount of knowledge to share. I hope to power team and give them the tools to be successful.
From page five, Fall 2014 Groton-Dunstable Barometer