Testimonials


Design Thinking in Schools

 

Design thinking with faculty off-campus workshop!

Fred – our celebrated Educational Innovation Coordinator – has been with the school since 1999, first as an Associate Teacher at SHB, and then transitioning to the ed-tech faculty in 2004.

Fred was instrumental in completely converting the former traditional computer lab into a world-class, multi-use innovation “Spark Studio.” In fact, Fred co-designed the transformed space working with a team of architects, facilities personnel, students and faculty. He visited many other local and national schools, sketching ideas throughout, and helping to create multiple elements that were perfect for C&SH. Our Spark Studio, thanks to Fred, hosts visitors from around the country who have heard of the unique space. In fact, Fred is well-known as a rising knowledge star in the “makerspace movement,” having presented at educational technology events for several years.

Another critical important role for Fred was helping teachers and students transition into 1:1 device school. Fred’s role was to plant seeds, troubleshoot user issues, work with faculty to develop integrated units involving technology and cultivate a trusting and open relationship with faculty.

Fred’s personal drive to continue expanding his technical skills and his passion to support students and faculty throughout the years also led him to become a national leader among ed-tech professionals looking to transition their K-8 program. Fred will be sorely missed by all.

Howard Levin
Director of Educational Innovation and Information Services
Convent & Stuart Hall, Schools of the Sacred Heart, San Francisco

Training teachers to use technology and innovation in meaningful ways in the learning process can be very challenging. Fred has met that challenge and empowered our community to use 21st Century tools, 1:1 iPads, digital citizenship, robotics and design thinking constructs to augment the learning experience for all our students, teachers and parents. He also helped lead the transformation of our traditional and static computer lab to a dynamic and student-centered flexible-collaborative-makerspace. Fred has been a valuable and trusted member of our Schools of the Sacred Heart community.

Angela Taylor
Head of Park Day School
Former Head of Convent Elementary, Schools of the Sacred Heart, San Francisco

Fred has worn several hats during his 18 year tenure at Schools of the Sacred Heart. He began as an associate teacher but quickly became our “go-to” man for everything related to technology. Over the years he has transitioned from a traditional “technology” teacher to the role he has had since 2011 as an Educational Innovation Coordinator. As one of Fred’s supervisors, I have observed his teaching abilities, organizational strategies and interpersonal skills with students, parents and colleagues. It is from this wide perspective that I write this recommendation.

Fred is a professional to the core. He is a solid teacher with a great ability to motivate students using interesting and age appropriate assignments. He works diligently to improve upon his instructional methodologies. In addition, he is willing to share his knowledge with others. Over the past several years he has helped teachers not only incorporate technology skills into their instructional practices but more importantly he has helped teachers take the significant step of innovating using design thinking constructs. He has helped run technology boot camps for students, implement and teach a digital citizenship course using Common Sense Media’s curriculum and he has taken a leadership role in rolling out a 1-1 iPad program for all students in the middle and high school. Most profoundly, he took a lead role in helping us transform our very traditional and static technology classroom to a dynamic and student friendly “Spark” studio.

A letter on behalf of Fred would not be complete without commenting on his friendly disposition. He has a warm personality and gets along well with his colleagues. He is a true team player who is willing to pitch in wherever he is needed. He will make an excellent addition to any school environment that values professionalism, innovation and collaboration.

Jaime Dominguez
Head of Oakwood School

Former Head of Stuart Hall for Boys, School of the Sacred Heart, San Francisco

“When putting together a faculty training or conference, Fred is one of the first people on my list of experts- his breadth of knowledge, empathy, humor and many years of experience make him an ideal maker facilitator and EdTech coach. An outstanding person and an unparalleled educator.”

Nicolas Cole-Farrell
Director of Technology and Making, The Brandeis School of San Francisco

“I had the pleasure of working with Fred for six years at Schools of the Sacred Heart in San Francisco, California. Together, we developed a program founded in Design Thinking allowing our students to explore passions they never knew they had, face opportunities for failure constructively, and become moonshot thinkers. Fred’s guidance, support, and insight allowed me to find new ways to integrate technology in manners that truly transformed my instruction. He celebrates the process of learning rather than focusing merely on end products. Any school or organization would be lucky to have the opportunity to work with Fred!”

Kellie Mullin
Head of School, St. Raymond School

Working with Fred has been a highlight of my EdTech career. Fred brings an unparalleled energy and enthusiasm for enhancing education through the use of cutting edge technology. Fred’s deep knowledge base, willingness to grow and learn, and all around great attitude makes him a pleasure to work with.

Leigh Northrup, Dean of Innovation & Technology, The Cannon School

Fred Jaravata is simply the best. I have worked with Fred for well over 15 years and he has guided me with wisdom, patience and expertise in all things tech. Fred’s extraordinary wealth of knowledge in tech curriculum, resources and professional development have been a game changer in my career. Count your blessings if you find yourself lucky enough to work alongside such a gifted educator.

Mary Kay Leveroni, Educational Therapist

Fred Jaravata breathes new life to the teaching and learning process. His focus on honoring the individual journeys of students is not only compelling, it is an absolute necessity in and out of the classroom for both educators and students alike. In just an hour, I’ve gained a completely new perspective on STEM education, and my place in it as an advocate and volunteer in my community.

Gina Choi, Strategic Account Manager – Microsoft