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Technology cuts like a double-edged sword. On one end, technology slices time in half, enables more personalized instruction, and keeps educators abreast of student progress. On the other, it slashes instructional time, as teaching moments—up to an hour per week according to surveys—are lost to device management.

During the edLeader Panel “Managing the Modern Classroom: Tech Infrastructure as the Hidden Key to Teaching Time,” Amy Jaeckel, Executive Director of Technology and Information for the Green Bay Area Public School District (WI), described how leaders repurposed device-charging systems to streamline class tech management. The strategy helped teachers and tech leaders provide system-level technology support to classrooms, better address real-time device needs, and ensure every device is ready for action.

“Prior to us rolling out the systems that we have now, we would see teachers doing their best to organize a chaotic amount of cords,” said Jaeckel. Managing devices, cords, and charging logistics often intruded on teacher preparation time.

Students use devices to complete assignments, homework, and participate in class. When a device is not fully charged, becomes unavailable, or malfunctions, teachers must pivot. Lessons are redirected on the fly, disrupting instruction and students’ ability to stay on task.

Green Bay isn’t alone in this challenge. 57% of those who attended the edLeader Panel said device charging and management was a top frustration in class—a hidden sap on teacher time and student learning.

3 Ways Green Bay Reclaimed Instructional Time with Charging Stations

By rethinking how charging can benefit class management, the district built student responsibility, assigning tech captain roles, tracking device readiness, and rewarding responsible habits that foster a culture of ownership and leadership. Three interesting examples were shared:

1. Small, strategic changes reduced classroom disruptions.

Some elementary classrooms are equipped with two charging stations on opposite ends of the classroom. It prevents disruptions as students don’t have to walk all the way around the classroom for a device, eliminating extra opportunities for interruptions. “That’s one less behavioral or redirection that a staff member might have to take,” said Jaeckel.

2. Transition periods and downtime became opportunities for accountability and responsible device management.

Educators set the tone with clear instruction of how to care for, store, and charge devices at the beginning of the year, then reinforce expectations daily by assigning tech captain roles. For instance, computers are placed in charging stations so that the cable is at the bottom of the device when it’s plugged in. “That is something that we had to really focus on a lot because our students would take the device and flip it and try to stretch that charging cord to the top, and then the cable would get damaged,” said Jaeckel.

Previously, teachers spent extra time double-checking devices and making sure each one was plugged in correctly. Now, teachers rotate student assignments as tech captains so a different student is on deck daily to ensure all devices are properly stored and plugged in before the bell rings.

3. Collaboration across IT and instructional teams boosted classroom support.

One important strategy is regular cross-functional meetings among district and school leaders. Technology leaders meet regularly with curriculum or instructional leaders to understand what’s impacting classrooms—and how technology can better support priorities. An IT specialist with a teaching background can “really help with how we boost our instruction and boost engagement,” said Jaeckel.

According to Mike Faherty, Chief Revenue Officer of JAR Systems, leaders can consider the following tips for charging hardware in classrooms:

• Choose hardware that does not require AC adapters.
• Use USB-C technology. It can eliminate the extra work needed to retrofit carts and customize setups for each classroom.
• Look for a solution that is device agnostic so “you don’t have to worry about lining up AC adapters that relate to certain devices. Everything will charge on that USB-C platform,” he said.
• Clutter-free solutions also keep walkways clear of wires, cords, and other distractions.

View the edLeader Panel recording to learn more about device management and how to make technology work for, not against, instruction.

Learn more about this edWeb broadcast, Managing the Modern Classroom: Tech Infrastructure as the Hidden Key to Teaching Time, sponsored by JAR Systems.

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Technology in Schools is a free professional learning community where district administrators, school leaders, and all educators can share ideas, examples, and resources that relate to integrating technology effectively in schools.

JAR Systems provides more versatile ways to charge and manage ever-evolving technologies. The company works closely with its clients to develop products that support and streamline how mobile technology is used for learning. JAR Systems recognizes the disruptive impact of low battery issues, the necessity for reliable charging technology, and the importance of prompt, hassle-free support. The company designs solutions-focused products and prioritizes customer care throughout every phase—from initial planning to post-deployment support.

Article by Suzanne Bell, based on this edLeader Panel