Cornell School District

In 1999, Cornell hired Questeq to manage its IT services. Using a combination of on-site personnel and remote staff, Questeq ensures that the entire school district's technology runs smoothly by overseeing the technology infrastructure such as computers, servers and switches, as well as its network. Questeq also manages the district's technology help desk.

When technology issues occur in the classroom, teachers can simply submit an electronic ticket via phone or email detailing the problem. That ticket is then circulated through the Questeq team and the problem is resolved in a timely manner.

"Questeq also played an integral part in designing the technology Plan section of our Strategic Plan," adds Belas. "Questeq's expertise is a valued asset to this collaborative process."

Communication for the district has also been streamlined because of having a technology management partner like Questeq. "Since 2000, the entire district has been paperless. We communicate electronically throughout the district and use a combination of technologies including a robust and informative website to communicate with our parents."

The small size of the school district enables the staff to adapt to technological changes quickly and effectively. For this reason, Cornell serves as a beta tester for many of Questeq's latest technologies and new services.

This willingness to experiment and continually improve technology for its faculty and students is one of the reasons the school district was selected for the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Classroom for the Future initiative. Questeq also understands the tight budget constraints that school districts are under today and develops tailored strategies to remain competitive, but still stay within budget.

"Questeq knows the resources we have available to us," adds Belas. "If there is a technology we need to do our jobs more effectively, they won't try to sell us the most expensive solution out there, rather they'll find a the right solution we need and help us determine how to make it work within our IT infrastructure as well as our budget. They are very honorable in that regard."

Something interesting has happened since Cornell chose Questeq to manage its IT. Not only did they get excellent managed technology services, they've benefited from their partnership beyond technology.

"Mike Miller, the on-site Questeq employee, is an essential part of our team," says Belas. "When new teachers come into the district, they don't just hear that we contract with Questeq, they meet and interact with Mike. He works with them from day one, getting them set up with e-mail, electronic grade books, various trainings and any other technology needs that may arise. He has even started a club for kids who are interested in computers and technology."

This contribution doesn't stop at the classroom door. Questeq donates to district fundraisers and the company has set up a scholarship opportunity for graduating seniors. The company participates in Cornell's annual career day for 7th and 8th graders and encourages them to consider a career in technology.