As a Career and Technology Education (CTE) Educator in Computer Science and Cybersecurity, I strive to emulate a true business environment in my classroom. As required through the CTE program, our Advisory Panel (consisting of local business and industry leaders) advises us on trends in industry and what skills are needed in the current business environment, including general program knowledge, hardware, software, and soft skills.
I am proud of my classroom and strive to make it one of the best in the district. Fresh paint and new LED lighting brighten up the room. PC's (vs Chromebooks), dual monitors, and height-adjustable desks bring current industry standards to the classroom. New navy chairs were purchased to replace the 70's orange, yellow, and green seating. New whiteboards have been installed, and new interactive projectors replaced the smaller Smart Board and projector.
Two teachers run the CTE Business Department - Mr. Erb and I. When I started at HHS, the CTE Business Department offered programs in Business Management, Finance, and Digital Multimedia Design. In the fall of 2016, we added Insurance and Computer Science programs based on feedback from our Advisory Panel and students. Marketing was introduced in the fall of 2017. Harvard's AP Computer Science curriculum was brought to Hastings in the fall of 2018. Cybersecurity courses were introduced in the fall of 2020. Expanded offerings in Computer Science and Cybersecurity were offered Fall of 2023.
Since I offer more technology-based programs within the department, B-108 is equipped with the newest computers. Our Advisory Panel recommends IBM-compatible products. Room B-108 currently has HP Z240 workstations with dual HP 21.5" monitors. We also have a Kyocera TASKalfa 3253ci multi-function printer. We have replaced the Smart brand Interactive White Board with two Epson BrightLink® Pro 1430Wi Collaborative Whiteboarding Solutions with Touch. As standard at Hastings Area Schools, I also have a Document Camera.
All of my courses utilize the pc's in my lab. Workstations are set up in pods of four - great for individual work and for collaborating in small groups. Electric adjustable height workstations were introduced Spring of 2016.
We utilize a wide range of software and web applications in B-108. We are on a Microsoft Network, utilizing Windows 11. Productivity suites include Microsoft Office Suite, Google Apps for Education, and Adobe Creative Cloud. NetSupport School Classroom Management is used in B-108. Students have used Chrome, Firefox, and Edge for browsers, Notepad II, and Unity for 3D Digital Animation. Some Web Apps we use are: cengage.com, office.com, ieclass.com, blender.com, Next Gen Personal Finance.com, testout.com, edhesive.com, nglsync.cengage.com, etc.