As schools nationwide struggle with staffing shortages, technology might offer a valuable solution. A new CDW webinar, scheduled for November 7, will introduce a range of tech-driven strategies aimed at helping K–12 leaders manage teacher and staff shortages while improving student outcomes and classroom efficiency. The event, titled “Accelerating K–12 Education: Empowering Classrooms with Smart Solutions and AI,” will feature insights from industry experts at companies like LocknCharge, Microsoft, SMART Technologies, Teq, and Kokomo24/7.
This live panel discussion will explore practical applications of artificial intelligence, streamlined device management, interactive tools, and safety solutions designed to enhance productivity, relieve pressure on educators, and foster classroom engagement.
A 2023 RAND survey reveals that the average teacher works over 50 hours weekly, leaving little room for added responsibilities. AI could become a powerful support tool, streamlining tasks like lesson planning and grading to provide teachers with much-needed time. Mark Sparvell, Microsoft’s Director of Education Marketing, highlights AI’s potential, noting that tools within Microsoft’s Copilot and Teams platforms can simplify lesson planning, create assessments, and even act as “endlessly patient tutors” to help students master key concepts.
For instance, Sparvell describes how a teacher can prompt Copilot to create tailored assessments or exercises for English learners, focusing on chosen topics or reading levels. These tools allow teachers to develop customized lessons with ease, maximizing learning opportunities for students and reducing teachers’ workloads.
When student devices break down, it often disrupts class flow, pulling teachers and IT staff away from their primary duties to address technical issues. LocknCharge CEO James Symons will present a solution: a new self-service system that allows students to manage device replacements independently. “This system empowers students to take charge of their own device issues, reducing the time teachers spend on troubleshooting,” explains Symons. By enabling students to replace or repair devices on their own, schools can save valuable instructional time and help staff stay focused on their core responsibilities.
Post-pandemic, student engagement remains a priority for educators, and interactive tools can help keep students engaged in class activities. James Gaffikin, National Channel Manager at SMART Technologies, notes that SMART’s interactive displays offer a hands-on experience that is essential for engagement. The displays come with ready-made templates and lesson resources, making it easier for teachers to develop dynamic content quickly.
For those looking to integrate interactive displays seamlessly, SMART’s Lumio platform offers an additional layer by connecting displays with personal devices, creating a unified, interactive learning environment. Teq, another webinar contributor, will emphasize the value of professional development in leveraging these tools. “Without proper training, even the best tech tools may go unused or underutilized,” says Brian Beedenbender, Teq’s VP of Sales, highlighting the importance of a structured curriculum component alongside new tech to ensure maximum impact.
Keeping schools safe requires more than individual security tools. Nick Welch, marketing lead for Kokomo24/7, will discuss the benefits of a unified safety platform that integrates tools like visitor management, panic buttons, and mass notification systems. Welch argues that separate systems often create inefficiencies and increase complexity, while an interconnected system allows schools to take swift action in critical situations. “A consolidated platform makes schools more efficient and enables administrators to respond rapidly,” he says, underscoring how holistic approaches to safety can streamline daily operations and enhance security.
CDW’s webinar is part of an ongoing effort to address current challenges in K–12 education through advanced technology. By bringing together experts across fields, CDW aims to provide actionable insights that school leaders can use to support educators and staff, improve student engagement, and manage resources more effectively.
Set to go live on November 7, the webinar promises to deliver valuable strategies that could make a significant difference in how schools operate amidst ongoing staff shortages. With a focus on AI, interactive displays, device management, and safety technology, this session will equip educational leaders with tools to create more resilient and efficient learning environments.
