Technology Director
Everett Cook
I began working with Southeast Island School District in January 2022 as a Technology Assistant and moved into the Technology Director role about a year later. I have been in that position since, supporting all technology operations across the district.
My interest in technology started through hands-on experience with web design, 3D printing, programming, and computer systems. Before working in technology, I worked in social services, which shaped my approach to problem solving and supporting others.
In this role, I focus on keeping systems reliable, accessible, and aligned with the needs of staff and students while continuing to improve processes over time.
As Technology Director, I am responsible for managing and supporting all aspects of technology within the district. This includes:
- Overseeing district-wide technology systems and infrastructure
- Managing and maintaining student and staff devices
- Supporting staff with technical issues and troubleshooting
- Administering core systems such as student information and testing platforms
- Coordinating and preparing devices and systems for state and district testing
- Managing data processes, including imports, exports, and system integrations
- Supporting communication systems such as the district website and notification tools
- Planning for upgrades, improvements, and long-term technology needs
Due to the size and structure of the district, this role involves both high-level planning and hands-on implementation to ensure technology functions effectively across all sites.
Infrastructure & Network
- Implemented Starlink across the district, significantly improving connectivity while reducing both district and state costs
- Standardized and rebuilt the district network using UniFi equipment, including VLAN segmentation for performance, security, and scalability
- Upgraded VM infrastructure to RAID 1 and migrated from VMware to Proxmox, reducing costs and improving reliability
- Implemented secure remote access using Tailscale across all sites
Security & Systems
- Strengthened network security through content filtering and router-level blacklisting
- Planned and initiated a district-wide security upgrade:
- Mapped all school sites for camera and door access expansion
- Procured UniFi camera and access control systems
- Filed E-Rate Category 2 funding for infrastructure (cabling, switching, racks)
Devices & Classroom Technology
- Deployed Jamf as a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution
- Installed and standardized Promethean and ViewSonic smart boards across all sites
- Restructured device management:
- Standardized staff devices to MacBook Pros
- Implemented a student device lifecycle allowing graduates to keep their computers
- Transitioned younger grades to iPads
- Repurposed Chromebooks for testing and support roles
Systems, Data & Operations
- Improved PowerSchool processes and reporting workflows, including report card generation
- Developed scripts and internal tools to automate data processing
- Updated and modernized the district technology agreement
Communication & User Experience
- Rebuilt the district and school websites into an in-house system with:
- Google login integration
- Calendar syncing
- Streamlined news and communication tools
Facilities & Hardware Improvements
- Cleaned and restructured legacy phone line infrastructure
- Upgraded the Thorne Bay gym sound system with a durable hockey ring speaker
- Standardized printers across all sites using a single Kyocera model
Financial Stewardship & Resource Management
- Utilized RUS grant funding for major technology upgrades
- Conducted technology inventory sales to remove obsolete equipment
- Planning and evaluating alternatives to the current phone system to reduce costs
Innovation & Future Planning
- Designed and began implementation of an internal AI server for district use