The BCSD Board of Trustees is thrilled to recognize Ernest Hemingway STEAM School Instructional Technology Teacher Caitlin Olson.

The following accolade was submitted by EHSS Teacher Dori Madsen: 

“Versatile is the only word I can use to describe Caitlin. I honestly don’t know how she does it each day, but she manages to do so many things that she must be exhausted at the end of each day. Let me try to cover the things I KNOW she does. I am sure that this is only a partial list.

Computer repair/problem-solving: Almost every day, something goes wrong with one of our Chromebooks or desktop computers. After trying to solve the problem ourselves, we often need support from her to figure out what is going on. A quick text to her will result in an immediate response, letting us know how soon she can be there. Then, literally in a run, she bolts in and tries to figure out the problem. If she can’t, she’ll grab the device or contact the technology department and provide a replacement. In today’s world of teaching with technology, this is an essential part of our day at school. 

Chromebooks: When new students come to our school, Caitlin issues them new Chromebooks with updated usernames and passwords almost immediately. When a student exits our school, she’ll grab the unused Chromebook for the next new student. Additionally, Caitlin is on an extended contract and comes in before teachers to clean all the Chromebooks and get them ready for students each year. 

Lessons: Caitlin teaches Computer Technology lessons. She comes into class on a regular basis to teach computer-related topics such as coding, computer etiquette, typing, and program and tool usage. 

Math: Although not a part of her official title, Caitlin has a Math Consulting Teacher endorsement and is always happy to help when teachers are looking for tools or ideas for intervention. She has a warehouse of great materials that she is always willing to loan out to us.

MTSS/RTI: This is the process of referring students to identify supports and determine if the students need additional interventions or supports. She took over this task this year and has helped our school become more efficient, organized, and thoughtful in this process. 

Middle School: Hemingway is the only school in the district to house both elementary and middle school students. Although the elementary school keeps Caitlin on her toes all day long, the middle school technology requirements are significant. I am not sure what she does for them, but I do know that they rely on her all day long.

Testing: Caitlin is our testing coordinator. She lets us know when the testing windows open and close, ensures that all test administrators are trained, and comes in during testing to see if there are any problems that need to be addressed. Caitlin always has a great attitude and is willing to do whatever job is given her. She is an essential part of the foundation that keeps Hemingway running smoothly. I know I speak for many of my peers when I say that Caitlin’s versatile skill set supports us in our ability to do our jobs and focus on student achievement. I don’t know what we would do without her!”