In an age where digital tools are no longer supplemental but central to education, technology leaders are being called to do more than fix what’s broken — they’re expected to proactively shape the learning environment. Victor DeMedeiros, Senior Technology Manager at New Bedford Public Schools in Massachusetts, exemplifies this modern shift in tech leadership. His strategic work to overhaul systems and culture across his district recently earned him the Innovative Senior Technology Manager honor at the Tech & Learning New England Regional Leadership Summit.
But beyond the award lies a deeper story: how thoughtful, forward-looking IT management can ease the daily burdens on educators, empower students, and strengthen the broader school community.
From Triage to Transformation: A Proactive Tech Mindset
DeMedeiros describes the traditional tech office in public schools as an “emergency room”—high-pressure and always reactive.
“It often felt like working in an ER,” he explains. “You’re constantly responding to the next crisis, which keeps things running but never allows you to improve the system strategically.”
Instead of continuing in this reactive mode, DeMedeiros — in partnership with Dr. Matthew X. Joseph, Assistant Superintendent of Technology and Learning — pioneered a shift toward what he calls an “operating room” model: planned, precise, and proactive.
This mindset drove a five-part innovation initiative including:
- A complete network infrastructure overhaul
- Improved cybersecurity protocols
- Upgraded student device management
- Smarter classroom tech integration
- Strengthened parent and community engagement tools
The goal: build a sustainable system that supports teaching and learning, not just keeps it afloat.
A Chromebook Rollout With Immediate Impact
One standout example of this strategic approach was the summer deployment of 3,200 new Chromebooks to serve approximately 3,000 students at New Bedford High School. The district didn’t just hand out devices — it redesigned how they were managed, accessed, and supported.
“You could see the impact immediately—students were more engaged, more motivated, and genuinely energized by having modern tools,” DeMedeiros said.
This enthusiasm wasn’t just anecdotal; it demonstrated how infrastructure upgrades can directly boost morale and learning outcomes, especially when coupled with thoughtful planning and support.
Supporting Staff: 3 Ways Tech Can Make Educators’ Lives Easier
DeMedeiros offers three practical strategies for IT teams aiming to improve the daily experience of educators and administrators:
1. Streamline Tools and Training
Overwhelming educators with too many platforms dilutes productivity. Consolidating resources into cohesive ecosystems like Google Workspace, ClassLink, or ParentSquare helps simplify routines and ensures smoother tech integration.
2. Provide Responsive, Empowering Support
Fast, responsive tech support and targeted professional development allow educators to stay focused on teaching rather than troubleshooting.
3. Automate Administrative Tasks
Repetitive processes—like attendance tracking, device check-ins, and emergency communications—can be streamlined through automation, freeing staff for more impactful tasks.
Community Connection Through Better Communication Systems
Technology doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it functions as a bridge to families and the wider community. DeMedeiros stressed the importance of seamless, dependable communication tools, particularly in emergencies or situations that require family involvement.
“If communication systems are clunky or inconsistent, families feel disconnected. When we improve that flow, we improve attendance, student behavior, and overall engagement.”
Budgeting for Innovation: Tech Spending That Makes Sense
In a time of budget uncertainty, IT upgrades may feel like a luxury. But DeMedeiros warns against delaying critical infrastructure improvements:
“Outdated systems increase cybersecurity risks, cause operational breakdowns, and undermine trust in the district’s commitment to staff and student success.”
To make every dollar count, New Bedford Public Schools relies on:
- Data analytics to demonstrate ROI
- E-Rate programs
- Strategic grants and partnerships
Using data, for example, they’ve proven how upgraded communication tools led to better attendance and how preventative maintenance reduced tech-related downtime.
3 Key Considerations When Buying New Edtech
When it comes to selecting new technology, DeMedeiros advises decision-makers to look beyond flashy features and focus on long-term fit:
✅ Scalability & Compatibility
Ensure the solution can scale across schools and integrate with existing tools to prevent data silos and friction.
✅ User Experience & Support
A tool is only as effective as its usability. Choose solutions that offer intuitive design, vendor training, and reliable support.
✅ Sustainability & Total Cost of Ownership
Factor in licensing fees, support plans, hardware requirements, and upgrade paths when evaluating tech for long-term viability.
The Tools Powering This Transformation
Some of the platforms and systems in active use at New Bedford include:
- Cisco – for enterprise-level networking
- Verkada – for security solutions
- Chromebooks – as student learning devices
- Google Workspace – as a foundational productivity suite
- ClassLink – for simplified access to digital resources
- ParentSquare – to streamline school-family communication
Why It Matters
The story of Victor DeMedeiros is a blueprint for other tech managers navigating the increasing complexity of school IT environments. His approach underscores a core truth: technology is no longer just a support function—it’s a strategic driver of equity, access, and educational progress.
“Tech is foundational now, not optional,” says DeMedeiros. “When used with purpose and preparation, it has the power to transform lives—both in the classroom and beyond.”
What’s Next?
As schools nationwide face pressure to modernize and do more with less, proactive tech leaders like DeMedeiros are proving that smart, intentional upgrades can yield exponential returns in student engagement, staff satisfaction, and system efficiency.
The challenge now for other districts: adopt a similar operating room mindset—where every tool, every role, and every decision is aligned with long-term learning outcomes.
