SMART Desk Program Showcased at State Conference

The presentation highlighted how high school students provide real-world technology support through Upper St. Clair’s SMART Desk program, which allows students to gain hands-on technical and professional experience during the school day.

Presenters included district technology staff members Raymond Berrott, director of technology; Erin Walker and Mark Loya, technology systems specialists; and SMART Desk student technicians, seniors Jacob Clougherty and Sidharth Nambiar.

The SMART Desk functions as both a student learning opportunity and an operational support system for the school.

“It serves as a critical operational support system for the school while also providing a real-world training environment for students,” Mr. Berrott said. “Participants gain technical, communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that are valuable not only in technology careers but in any field or discipline. At the same time, the program directly improves the day-to-day experience of students and staff by ensuring technology remains reliable and accessible.”

Launched during the 2014-15 school year to support the district’s expansion of one-to-one devices and cloud-based learning, the program has grown from eight students to nearly 20 student technicians. The SMART Desk operates as a one-credit, full-year independent study course, with students scheduled based on academic availability. 

“The program has also expanded in scope, becoming a mission-critical support system and a formal course that includes professional development, student-led presentations, and real-world project work,” Mr. Berrott said. “One of the most impactful aspects of the program is that students support both their peers and staff, creating a strong, collaborative support system within the school.” 

Mr. Berrott states that SMART Desk students handle approximately 20% of the school’s technology support tickets each year. The program also helps identify emerging technical issues, improves responsiveness and provides valuable student feedback to the technology department.

Students benefit from hands-on technical training, opportunities to develop communication and professional skills, exposure to information technology careers and mentorship, and potential pathways to internships and employment.

The SMART Desk program is open to all Upper St. Clair High School students in grades 9-12 and no prior technology experience is required.

“Students do not need prior technical expertise to succeed,” he said. “A willingness to learn has proven more important, broadening participation and success among a more diverse group of students.”