Tech Unwreck

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Bo Patterson to unpack the impact of tariffs on the K-12 tech industry and school budgets. They explore how Vivacity Tech is helping districts adapt, from utilizing refurbished devices and buybacks to smart procurement and brand-new service plans like FleetAssure. Bo shares real-world insights into the creative solutions schools are using to stret...

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Ben Erickson, Chief Revenue Officer, at Vivacity Tech, to discuss the company’s innovative approach to supporting schools and IT directors as they navigate the AI tool landscape. Ben shares valuable insights on how tech directors can pilot Gemini Education, Google's generative AI tool, to streamline their district’s AI adoption at zero cost and ex...

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Eli Maloley, founder of Vivacity Tech, to reflect on the company's incredible journey through 2024. Eli shares milestones, from securing a patent to achieving substantial revenue growth, all while emphasizing the role of the passionate Vivacity team. Diving into challenges, Eli discusses how the team tackled obstacles head-on, especially in the ra...

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo and Drew Sidel dive into the extensive security features of Google Workspace for Education, highlighting their benefits for schools. Drew emphasizes the importance of robust security tools provided even in the free editions, securing schools against threats efficiently without the need for expensive third-party solutions. We also hear about Huntley Community Sch...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Erick Buenrostro, a digital resource and content specialist with over 12 years of experience in education. Erick shares his insights on integrating AI tools like Google's Gemini for Education into schools, highlighting its responsiveness and security features, which make it an invaluable resource for students and teachers alike. Erick also talks about the...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Kim Zimmer, the co-director of learning and innovation at Aspen School District. They dive into Aspen’s transition from a BYOD policy to adopting Chromebook Plus. Kim highlights how this move addresses equity concerns and enhances device management while providing students with high-performance tools for learning. Kim sheds light on unique challenges and b...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with Drew Sidel, the Head of Google Workspace for North America, about the exciting deployment of Gemini AI. Drew discusses how Gemini is integrated within Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides, making AI accessible without significant change management. Teachers, administrators, and IT directors can harness Gemini for various tasks, f...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Anthony Padrnos, the Executive Director of Technology at Osseo Area Schools. Anthony shares insights on how understanding the "why" behind instructional design can transform educational environments. He emphasizes that effective teaching relies on high-quality educators who adapt to students' needs, leveraging technology as a supportive tool, rather than t...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with with Conan Malady, Solutions Engineer at Vivacity Tech PBC, to introduce "Dream™," a revolutionary asset management system software tailored for K-12 education. With unlimited features at no cost, Dream™ aims to simplify schools' technology management processes, especially during the bustling preparations for ISTE. Conan provides insights into the deve...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with educational technology director Lucas Torre to explore the innovative adoption of AI in education at the District of Columbia Public Schools. They delve into how AI is enhancing academic integrity, personalizing learning, and ensuring ethical use with stringent privacy protocols. Listeners will gain insights into the practical applications of AI tools...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo is joined by tech enthusiast Melissa Fierro, who shares her insights on interactive flat panels' transformative role in classrooms. Learn how their versatile features and low maintenance make them a preference over traditional projectors. Witness the future of classroom engagement through Melissa's experiences with collaborative mapping activities, demonstrating the...

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo engages in a lively conversation with Nicole Levy and Dave Gaglione from Luther Memorial School. The episode dives into the crucial role of professional development in school tech and education. Nicole and Dave share their insights on the importance of professional development for educators, the impact of technology in the classroom, and the deliberate planning behin...

In the debut episode of Tech Unwreck, we invite you to join us for a lively roundtable discussion with Eli Maloley, and Sandy Johnson, hosted by the wonderful Nicky Acevedo. Together, we delve into the origins of Vivacity, including its mission as a public benefit corporation and the incredible growth of the company over the past five years. We also share personal stories and visions for the tech...

In this episode of "Tech Unwreck," Nicky Acevedo sits down with special guest Eric Curts to dive into the fascinating world of AI and its potential impact on the classroom. With over 30 years of experience as a technology integrationist, Eric shares his insights on generative AI, its diverse applications, and the need for educators to understand and embrace these innovative tools. From using AI fo...

In this episode of "Tech Unwreck" Nicky Acevedo sits down with Bria Faithful, the curriculum specialist at Vivacity Tech, to discuss the Student Repair Academy (SRA) program. SRA is an 80-hour, self-paced curriculum designed to equip students with the skills to repair Chromebooks. Bria explains how the program meets ISTE standards, includes a mix of online learning and hands-on training, and offer...