Brett Linn doesn’t look like a computer geek.
He dresses neat as a pin, doesn’t carry ball-point pens in a pocket-protector and discusses his role as USD 257’s technology in a measured and thorough manner easily understood by anyone, not just those who immerse themselves daily in cyberspace.
Linn’s expertise and dedication recently were recognized by him being given an award of excellence for website design and maintenance by the Kansas Association of School Boards School Public Relations Association.
Linn’s recognition came after the organization took a careful look at the district’s website in relation to research/assessment, analysis/planning, evaluation/results,, overall appearance and product quality.
Superintendent of Schools Brian Pakarek also was recognized for with certifications of merit for writing of a booklet, “A Grant Writing Campaign Wager by Staff,” and for commercial advertising he developed.
LINN HAS been on board in district technology affairs since his graduation from Iola High in May 2006. He earned a degree with emphasis on computer science and mathematics from Pittsburg State University in 2010 and immediately became USD 257’s director of technology.
Among his initial accomplishments was simplifying the online computer system, so it was more friendly to users and those who register information. Now, he noted, teachers can add classroom pages and general information without going through a third party.
The website also has a calendar that’s easily updated and archives that permit users to delve in what has been reported previously.
Linn busies himself daily managing all services and networks and has three assistants to keep the website vital to staff, students and the public, including parents.
Among online advantages is the Power School program, which permits students and their parents to have access to classroom information, including grades, specific to individuals. The latest innovation there, Linn said, was arrangement so parents could use a sign-on and password to access information about one, two or several children. Previously, sign-on was required for each student in a single family.
Fingerprint scanning to manage meals programs was demonstrated to board members Monday night and eventually will be used for other functions, such as clocking in for employees and library use. Linn noted that the fingerprint system — no two are alike among the billions of people on the planet — ensures exacting control of each of its functions.
Summer is the time when Linn and his cadre are busiest. They will spend the next 2 1/2 months, when most staff and students are out of buildings, doing maintenance work and installing new systems.
A website for the district endowment association also is being developed. It will be hosted by the USD 257 website and should be online by late summer. Among its function will be fundraising.
