In a recent survey, California’s teachers responded that they are interested in knowing “what works” to improve education and engage students in meaningful ways. I think one of the “bright spots” for what is working in California schools is the Mouse Squad program directed by Jan Half. This nonprofit program http://ca.mousesquad.org, enables upper elementary, middle, and high school students to increase their confidence and learn Information Technology (IT), customer service, and leadership skills as they troubleshoot their teachers’ computers, TV’s, and other equipment.

Mouse Squad California is now in 90 California schools, 50 school districts, 20 counties, reaching over 1,600 participating students, supporting 3,200 educators and 62,000 students at their schools or agencies, http://ca.mousesquad.org/MouseSquads/oursquads.html.  Special effort is made to recruit underserved and female students into the program.

 The program includes an online curriculum and hands on activities that correlate with 21st Century Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) skills. A student-run help desk is set up to troubleshoot computers, printers, and other equipment, where students can put into practice what they have learned.