MOUSE Squad of California

The number of high-tech devices in the homes and schools of K-12 students has skyrocketed during the past two decades. And young people’s interest in technology is literally at an all-time high. But shrinking budgets for tech support and limited technical knowledge of many teachers means that many schools need help to support technology use in the classroom.

MOUSE Squad of California (MSCA) brings these elements together in a program that’s great for students’ academic, interpersonal, and workplace skill development while also benefiting their schools and communities. Microsoft recognizes that powerful combination, and has awarded more than $20,000 to the organization to bring the program to schools in Silicon Valley. MSCA was also recognized by the Silicon Valley Education Foundation with the inaugural 2011 STEM Benchmark Award in Technology.

Students aged 9 through 18 join MOUSE Squads at their schools and follow a curriculum that combines online and hands-on work in 1- standards-aligned modules to learn how to become a certified technician. They develop problem-solving, communication and leadership skills while deepening their technical knowledge. About a third of the 100+ California schools with MOUSE Squads on site have a formal help desk setup. The rest mainly are involved in special projects for the school or outreach in their community. MOUSE Squad activities can be part of an afterschool program, or a regular class.

Pat Stabile, a science teacher at Ida Price Middle School in San Jose, serves as a MOUSE Squad leader. “The club members are learning new skills and are training their teachers. MOUSE Squad has really fulfilled many needs in our school and we are so lucky to be part of such a terrific program.”

A study by the Fordham University National Center for Schools & Communities confirms what educators have observed—MOUSE Squad members’ attendance and desire to stay in school increase, as does their academic performance. Their experience also helps with development of vital 21st century skills like teamwork, communication, and time management.

The fee for a school to participate is just $2,000 per year because contributions from donors offset the higher actual costs per school. MSCA began operating in 2004 as a program of Aspiranet, and licenses its curriculum from MOUSE of New York.

It’s cool to be a geek

“Students who normally wouldn’t join in or participate in any of our other extracurricular activities find a place that welcomes them and encourages their interest in technology.” says third grade teacher Chella Slimak of Eisenhower School in Santa Clara. Marie Scigliano, MOUSE Squad program specialist for the Greater Silicon Valley, agrees: “The kids feel connected and part of something ... [the program has] a lot more than just the technical. It’s just a wonderful fit for all kinds of kids in all kinds of environments.” Girls now represent 40 percent of members, compared with 25 percent at the program’s inception. “That’s changed from seven or eight years ago,” adds Scigliano, “It’s cool to be a geek.”

If you like MSCA’s work, you can make a donation, volunteer to teach or to speak about your career, or help bring the program to a school you care about. Learn more at ca.mousesquad.org.