Iron County School District: Cultivating a Tech-Driven Future for Student Succes

1. www.visionarycios.com Engaging with Online Communities: Building Connections in the Understanding DIGITAL ADVERTISING Formats DIGITAL AGE Vision Creation and Implementation- A PATHWAY TO SUCCESS TROY LUNT (Technology Director) Iron County School District Cultivating a Tech-Driven Future for Student Success The Most APPLICATION COMPANY in 2024 - 2025 TRUSTED CIO

3. 1985, Henderson Rd, Columbus, Ohio, 43220 Follow Us On: Publisher Visionary CIO’s For Sales & Branding Enquiries: info@visionarycios.com Marketing Coordinator(USA) Jeff Collins Digital Circulation Manager Chris Spain Social Media Manager Douglas Muir PR & Marketing Coordinator This list is NOT a ranking. The companies on listed in magazine serve different aspects of the market, making ranking them in any order except revenue impossible and unfair. We try to bring a perfect platform for business organization to showcase their valued products/ services. Helen Lao Business Development Executive Jason Sawyer Creative Design Head Kirsten Bay Copyrights ©Visionary CIOs| 2023. All Rights Reserved. The images and content included in this magazine should not be copied, transferred or reproduced in any form or by any means, electronics, mechanical, photocopying, recording, otherwise, without proper permission from Visionary CIOs. Visionary CIOs solely owns all the reprint rights. Chief Editor Lynn Howard For Subscription: info@visionarycios.com

4. A Model for Educational Technology Innovation! Iron County School District, Utah, exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to education, leveraging technology to enhance learning outcomes. Under the leadership of Troy Lunt, Technology Director, the district has integrated scalable computing, standards-based grading, and efficient deployment strategies. This commitment to innovation is driven by a focus on student success and a dedication to providing the necessary tools and support for all learners. By fostering collaboration with vendors and participating in regional and state initiatives, the district ensures its technology solutions are aligned with the evolving needs of education. Lunt's leadership has been instrumental in this transformation. His extensive experience in software development and military service has equipped him with the strategic expertise to navigate the complexities of educational technology. The implementation of Scale Computing's HC3 has significantly streamlined operations, allowing IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives. Furthermore, the adoption of standards-based grading through PowerSchool has enhanced transparency for parents and teachers, providing valuable insights into student progress. Iron County School District serves as a model for other educational institutions, demonstrating how technology can be effectively integrated to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for success in the 21st century. Lynn H.

5. Iron County School District: Cultivating a Tech-Driven Future for Student Success 08 20 Vision Creation and Implementation- A Pathway to Success COVER STORY ARTICLE ARTICLE ARTICLE 26 30 Understanding Digital Advertising Formats Engaging with Online Communities Building Connections in the Digital Age

8. 8

9. Cover Story IRON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT Cultivating a Tech-Driven Future for Student Success TROY LUNT (Technology Director) Despite the technological advancements in the EdTech sector in recent years, ensuring equitable access to this tech remains a significant challenge—especially in underserved communities. Educators also need to be equipped with the necessary skills to leverage EdTech for the better future of students. Iron County School District Today, dedicated team of innovators. Led by Troy Lunt (Technology Director) and supported by Randy Yardley (IT Manager), Ken Munford (Network and Security Manager), and Logan Staheli (Data Systems Manager), the team is transforming traditional classrooms into dynamic, digital learning environments. is setting a new standard in educational technology thanks to a The team is working continually to ensure that the district’s infrastructure, systems, and strategies remain at the cutting edge. As a result of their consistent efforts, Iron County School District has successfully cultivated a supportive environment where educators can innovate to help students thrive—making it one of The Most Trusted CIO Application Companies in 2024–2025. www.visionarycios.com | 9

10. Cover Story Logan Staheli (Data Systems Manager) Troy Lunt (Technology Director) 10

11. A Commitment to Quality Education Iron County School District is dedicated to setting students up for success by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for college and career readiness. To create a supportive learning environment, the district fosters a strong relationship among students, teachers, and families. The district’s vision is to empower all learners to reach their full potential. Ken Munford (Network and Security Manager) Through innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge technology, Iron County School District strives to provide high-quality education for every student. The district holds itself accountable, ensuring that all programs and technology solutions align with its goals and meet the specific needs of its students. Leading the Way in Educational Technology Iron County School District’s motivation to lead in CIO applications for education stems from its responsibility to support its stakeholders—school board members, the Superintendent, staff, principals, teachers, parents, and the community. The company focuses on exceeding expectations in technology and education through effective support for end-users like teachers and students. Led by the freedom to make key technology decisions, the district prioritizes innovative, practical solutions tailored to its unique needs—reciprocating the trust and support it receives from its leadership teams and stakeholders. At the helm of Iron County School District, Troy Lunt plays a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience. Beyond serving as a district resource, he actively participates in regional and state consortiums to influence policy decisions. Ensuring that innovative solutions are carefully vetted and implemented, Troy builds strategic partnerships with top-tier vendors to optimize educational outcomes—making him a key driver of the district’s growth and development. Randy Yardley (IT Manager) www.visionarycios.com | 11

12. Ken Munford (Network and Security Manager) 12

13. Cover Story A Unique Partnership Approach A recent initiative, the implementation of standards- based grading through PowerSchool significantly improved the transparency for parents and provided teachers with valuable insights into student performance. This system helped teachers identify specific areas of student strength and weakness—allowing them to tailor instruction to meet individual needs. The district ensures consistency and equity in assessment practices by aligning with national grading standards—showcasing a strong commitment to both technological security and the enhancement of student learning outcomes. What separates Iron County School District from the rest is its willingness to give back its time, knowledge, and expertise to its vendors. This helps it improve its ability to work with and provide solutions to its customers—through white papers, webinars, event participation, presentations, content for annual vendor conferences, and more. The majority of K-12 school districts will not do this because of the time and effort needed to make a difference. Troy spends a significant amount of time working with vendors because it is often the most valuable input and contribution they can receive in making better products and improving their relationships with the Iron County School District. Overcoming Tech Obstacles It was a massive challenge to integrate new technology, led by the complexity of managing devices, infrastructure, and security for a medium-to-large district. It included deploying devices efficiently, ensuring network compatibility, and maintaining compliance with the CIS Controls security framework. The district overcame these difficulties by adopting tools like Mosyle MDM (Mobile Device Manager) for student and staff devices, Google management for student devices, and One to One Plus for asset management and tracking. The district tech department prioritized collaboration, proactive planning with schools, and continuous follow-ups to optimize equipment usage and streamline deployment processes. This is a major distinction between Iron County School District’s tech department when compared with others–Troy goes the extra mile to establish “partnerships” with the Iron County School District’s vendors and technology providers rather than treating them as “just users” of the technology. Streamlining Operations with Scale Computing In terms of technology, the Iron County School District has taken a substantial leap forward by implementing Scale Computing hyper-converged infrastructure (Hc3). This innovative solution has streamlined virtual machine management and significantly reduced the time and effort required previously. With the adoption of this technology, the district has freed up valuable IT resources—enabling staff to focus on critical priorities. This advancement showcases that the district is committed to leveraging innovative tools with the goal of improving operational efficiency and supporting broader educational goals. The Iron County School District is actively preparing for future technological advancements by focusing on several key strategies to enable scalability, efficiency, and innovation readiness: Prioritizing Security and Student Success The Iron County School District wants to ensure that technology serves as a tool to enhance learning, not hinder it. To meet the required quality standard, it carefully evaluates all technology solutions and prioritizes student data privacy and compatibility with existing infrastructure. Moreover, teachers’ requests for resources are carefully considered to align with curriculum needs. www.visionarycios.com | 13

14. Cover Story Robust Infrastructure Prioritizing investment in high-quality network systems to support evolving applications and ensuring strong foundational technology. Collaboration Regular coordination among teams to align on goals and solutions. Cloud Transition Gradually moving suitable applications to the cloud for cost efficiency and scalability. Research & Training Continuous exploration of emerging technologies and investing in staff development. Outsourcing Leveraging third-party services for large-scale projects to optimize resources and focus on critical tasks. Success Driven by Key Partnerships The success of the Iron County School District in technology and innovation can be attributed to strategic partnerships with leading organizations. The Utah Education Network (UEN) provides a robust network backbone that supports schools, libraries, and healthcare facilities across the state. The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) ensures the district’s compliance with data privacy laws and state legislation, while key vendors such as Palo Alto (firewall and filtering), Virtru (email and file encryption), Scale Computing (hyper-converged infrastructure), and 1Password (password and system access security) contribute to security, data encryption, virtual machine management, and password management. Specialized site resources like the Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC) and Learn Platform further safeguard student data privacy by ensuring the use of secure, vetted classroom applications—enabling efficient and secure operations. 14

15. Randy Yardley (IT Manager) www.visionarycios.com | 15

16. Logan Staheli (Data Systems Manager) 16

17. Cover Story A Culture of Trust and Innovation As an IT manager, Randy emphasizes the Iron County School District’s commitment to cultivating trust and innovation in educational technology. With robust infrastructure, up-to-date systems, and a responsive technology team, the district is dedicated to supporting educators and students. This collaborative culture prioritizes student success, builds trust through transparency, and aligns decisions with the shared goal of continuous improvement. Its focus on innovation has led to improved student outcomes to ensure the company remains at the forefront of educational technology. A Strong Foundation for the Bright Future The Iron County School District is committed to preparing students for a bright future. By fostering critical thinking, embracing innovative technologies, and empowering educators, it is creating a thriving learning environment that inspires and challenges students. Through a combination of rigorous academics, engaging extracurricular activities, and a strong focus on character development, the district is equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in college, career, and life. www.visionarycios.com | 17

20. Vision Creation and Implementation: A Pathway to Success 20

21. In today’s fast-paced world, the significance of vision creation and implementation cannot be overstated. A clear and compelling vision serves as a guiding star for individuals and organizations alike, steering them toward their goals and objectives. This article delves into the concept of vision creation and implementation, exploring its importance, the steps involved, and how to effectively translate vision into action. Success Understanding Vision Creation and Implementation The Importance of Vision Creation and Implementation Vision creation and implementation refer to the process of defining a desired future state and developing strategies to achieve it. A vision provides direction, inspires action, and aligns efforts across various levels of an organization. It encapsulates aspirations and motivates stakeholders to work towards a common goal. The benefits of effective vision creation and implementation are manifold. Here are a few key reasons why organizations should prioritize this process: 1. Clarity and Focus Defining Vision Creation A well-defined vision provides clarity and focus. It helps teams understand their roles within the larger framework and fosters alignment toward common goals. This clarity reduces confusion and enhances productivity, as everyone is working towards the same endpoint. Vision creation begins with identifying core values and long-term objectives. It requires introspection and an understanding of the organization’s purpose. Engaging stakeholders in this process is crucial, as it fosters a sense of ownership and commitment to the vision. 2. Motivation and Engagement The Role of Implementation Vision creation and implementation cultivate motivation and engagement among team members. When individuals believe in the vision and see how their contributions matter, they are more likely to invest their time and energy into their work. This intrinsic motivation leads to higher performance and job satisfaction. Implementation is where the vision comes to life. It involves developing actionable strategies, setting measurable goals, and allocating resources effectively. Successful implementation hinges on strong leadership, clear communication, and ongoing evaluation of progress. www.visionarycios.com | 21

22. 3. Strategic Decision-Making Step 5: Allocate Resources A clear vision serves as a reference point for decision-making. When faced with choices, leaders can evaluate options based on how well they align with the vision. This strategic approach minimizes distractions and ensures that resources are allocated efficiently. Successful implementation requires adequate resources. Evaluate the resources needed to achieve the defined goals, including human capital, finances, and technology. Allocate these resources strategically to support the vision. 4. Long-Term Sustainability Step 6: Communicate the Vision Organizations that prioritize vision creation and implementation are better positioned for long-term success. A strong vision helps navigate challenges, adapt to changing environments, and seize new opportunities. It builds resilience and fosters a culture of innovation. Effective communication is vital for successful vision creation and implementation. Share the vision with all stakeholders, highlighting its importance and how it aligns with individual and organizational goals. Regularly reinforce the vision through meetings, newsletters, and other communication channels. Steps in Vision Creation and Implementation Step 7: Monitor and Evaluate Progress Creating and implementing a vision is a systematic process that involves several key steps: Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that the vision is on track. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress and hold regular check-ins to assess challenges and successes. This feedback loop allows for adjustments and improvements in the implementation process. Step 1: Identify Core Values Before crafting a vision, organizations must identify their core values. These values reflect the principles that guide decision- making and behavior within the organization. Engaging stakeholders in discussions about values can lead to a more inclusive and representative vision. Step 8: Celebrate Milestones Step 2: Craft a Compelling Vision Statement Recognizing and celebrating milestones achieved during the implementation process boosts morale and reinforces commitment to the vision. Acknowledging team efforts fosters a positive culture and encourages continued progress. The vision statement should be concise, inspiring, and forward- thinking. It should encapsulate the organization’s aspirations and convey a sense of purpose. A well-crafted vision statement acts as a rallying cry for team members, inspiring them to work towards a common goal. Step 3: Engage Stakeholders Involving stakeholders in the vision creation process is crucial for buy-in and commitment. Hold workshops, focus groups, or surveys to gather input and feedback. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the vision but also fosters a sense of ownership among team members. Step 4: Develop Actionable Strategies Once the vision is defined, the next step is to develop actionable strategies for implementation. Break down the vision into specific goals and objectives, ensuring they are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). This will provide a roadmap for moving forward. 22

23. Challenges in Vision Creation and Implementation While vision creation and implementation are crucial for success, organizations may face challenges along the way: Resistance to Change: Some team members may resist new visions due to fear of change or uncertainty. Addressing these concerns through open communication and involvement in the process is essential. Lack of Resources: Limited resources can hinder effective implementation. Organizations must prioritize resource allocation and consider innovative solutions to overcome this barrier. Misalignment of Goals: If individual or departmental goals are not aligned with the overarching vision, it can lead to confusion and reduced effectiveness. Regular check-ins and clear communication can help mitigate this risk. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Conclusion In conclusion, vision creation and implementation are fundamental to achieving long-term success in any organization. A well-defined vision provides clarity, motivates individuals, and guides strategic decision-making. By following a systematic process and addressing potential challenges, organizations can effectively translate their vision into action. Prioritizing vision formation and application not only enhances organizational performance but also fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, paving the way for a brighter future. Embrace the power of vision, and watch your organization thrive. www.visionarycios.com | 23

26. 26

27. Understanding DIGITAL ADVERTISING FORMATS In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, businesses and marketers must adapt to a multitude of advertising methods to effectively reach their target audiences. With the rise of the internet and social media, digital advertising has evolved, offering various formats that cater to different objectives and consumer behaviors. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various digital advertising formats available, focusing on their unique characteristics and advantages. informed decisions about where to allocate their budgets, ensuring maximum return on investment (ROI). The right format can significantly enhance a campaign’s effectiveness, ultimately leading to better engagement and conversion rates. target specific demographics, interests, and online behaviors, ensuring their message reaches the right audience. Retargeting Opportunities: Display ads can retarget users who have previously interacted with a brand, reminding them of their interest. Ÿ Types of Digital Advertising Formats 1. Display Ads 2. Social Media Ads Display ads are among the most common digital advertising formats. These visual advertisements typically appear on websites, apps, and social media platforms. They come in various sizes and shapes, from banner ads to interstitials. Display ads can include images, videos, or animations, making them visually appealing and engaging. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn offer various advertising options, making social media ads a vital component of any digital marketing strategy. These ads can take the form of sponsored posts, stories, or video ads, seamlessly integrating into users’ feeds. The Importance of Digital Advertising Formats Understanding digital advertising formats is crucial for marketers to create effective campaigns that resonate with their audience. Each format has its strengths, allowing businesses to tailor their messages according to their goals—whether it be brand awareness, lead generation, or direct sales. Advantages of Social Media Ads: Advantages of Display Ads: High Engagement Rates: Social media ads often receive higher engagement than traditional advertising, as users are more likely to interact with content within their social networks. Ÿ Brand Visibility: Display ads are effective for creating brand awareness due to their prominent placement on websites. Targeted Reach: Advertisers can Ÿ When companies understand digital advertising formats, they can make Ÿ www.visionarycios.com | 27

28. 5. Native Ads Advanced Targeting: Social media platforms provide advanced targeting options based on user demographics, interests, and online behaviors, allowing for highly tailored campaigns. Measurable Results: Advertisers can track engagement metrics, conversion rates, and ROI in real time, enabling data-driven decisions. Ÿ Native advertising involves creating ads that blend seamlessly with the content of the platform on which they appear. These ads are designed to look and feel like the surrounding content, making them less intrusive and more engaging for users. Ÿ Advantages of Native Ads: 3. Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Improved User Experience: Because native ads match the format of the content, they offer a more pleasant user experience, leading to higher engagement. Higher Click-Through Rates: Native ads often outperform traditional display ads due to their relevance and context. Brand Perception: Native advertising can enhance brand perception by associating it with valuable content, rather than traditional advertising. Search engine marketing involves placing ads on search engine results pages (SERPs) through pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns. Advertisers bid on specific keywords relevant to their products or services, ensuring their ads appear when users search for those terms. Ÿ Ÿ Advantages of SEM: Ÿ Immediate Visibility: Unlike organic search results, SEM allows for instant visibility, placing ads at the top of search results. Targeted Audience: Ads are shown to users actively searching for related products or services, increasing the likelihood of conversions. Budget Control: Advertisers can set daily budgets and adjust bids based on performance, providing flexibility in spending. Ÿ Emerging Digital Advertising Formats Ÿ As technology advances, new digital advertising formats continue to emerge, offering marketers even more ways to engage with their audience. Some noteworthy formats include: Ÿ 1. Influencer Marketing 4. Video Ads This format leverages the reach and credibility of social media influencers to promote products and services. By partnering with influencers whose audiences align with their target market, brands can enhance their visibility and credibility. With the increasing consumption of video content online, video ads have become an essential digital advertising format. These ads can appear on platforms like YouTube, and social media, and even embedded on websites, providing an immersive experience for viewers. 2. Augmented Reality (AR) Ads Advantages of Video Ads: AR ads provide interactive experiences by overlaying digital content in the real world. This format allows users to engage with products uniquely, increasing interest and engagement. Enhanced Storytelling: Video ads allow brands to tell their stories compellingly, capturing the audience’s attention. High Engagement: Video content typically has higher engagement rates compared to static ads, leading to increased brand recall. Shareability: Engaging video ads are often shared across social media, increasing their reach and potential impact. Ÿ 3. Podcast Ads Ÿ With the rise of podcasting, ads integrated into podcast episodes have become a popular format. These ads often feel more personal and trustworthy, as listeners tend to have a close connection with their favorite hosts. Ÿ 28

29. Conclusion Navigating the Digital Advertising Landscape Understanding digital advertising formats is vital for businesses looking to thrive in the competitive online marketplace. By leveraging the various formats available—display ads, social media ads, search engine marketing, video ads, and native ads—marketers can create tailored campaigns that effectively reach and engage their target audiences. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed about emerging formats and trends will be crucial for marketers. By continually refining their strategies and adapting to the changing landscape, businesses can maximize their digital advertising efforts, driving engagement, and achieving their marketing goals. In summary, a thorough understanding of digital advertising formats not only enables businesses to reach their audience more effectively but also enhances their overall marketing strategy. By embracing a diverse range of formats, brands can create meaningful connections with consumers, ultimately driving growth and success in the digital age. www.visionarycios.com | 29

30. Engaging?with Engaging?with ONLINE COMMUNITIES: Building Connections in the Digital Age In today’s digital landscape, engaging with online communities has become an essential practice for individuals and brands alike. These communities, often formed around shared interests or goals, provide a unique platform for interaction, collaboration, and support. Whether you are looking to enhance your brand, promote a product, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, understanding how to effectively engage with online communities can significantly impact your success. Understanding Online Communities Online communities can take many forms, including social media groups, forums, and specialized platforms. They serve as virtual spaces where individuals can share knowledge, experiences, and resources. The power of these communities lies in their ability to bring together diverse perspectives and foster meaningful relationships. As the internet continues to evolve, so too does the way people communicate and collaborate. Engaging with online communities allows individuals to tap into a wealth of information, gain insights from experts, and even find mentorship opportunities. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to connect with others through these digital platforms is invaluable. 30

31. www.visionarycios.com | 31

32. The Benets of Engaging with Online Communities Networking Opportunities: Engaging with online communities enables you to connect with individuals in your field or area of interest. This networking can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and partnerships that might not have been possible otherwise. Building these relationships is essential for personal and professional growth. Knowledge Sharing: Online communities are treasure troves of information. By participating actively, you can share your knowledge while also learning from others. This exchange of ideas can lead to new insights, innovative solutions, and a deeper understanding of your chosen field. Best Practices for Engaging with Online Communities To make the most of your experience when engaging with online communities, consider the following best practices: Support Systems: Many online communities provide emotional support and encouragement. Whether you are facing challenges in your personal life or seeking advice on a professional issue, connecting with others who understand your struggles can be incredibly beneficial. Engaging with online communities fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity. Brand Awareness and Engagement: For businesses, engaging with online communities is a powerful way to build brand awareness and foster customer loyalty. By actively participating in discussions and providing valuable content, brands can position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. This approach not only enhances visibility but also encourages potential customers to engage with the brand. 1. Choose the Right Platforms Different online communities cater to different audiences and interests. It’s essential to choose platforms that align with your goals. For example, LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking, while Facebook groups might be more suitable for niche interests. Researching and selecting the right communities is crucial for effective engagement. 2. Be Authentic When engaging with online communities, authenticity is key. People are drawn to genuine interactions, so be yourself and share your experiences openly. Avoid overly promotional language and instead focus on providing value to the community. Building trust through authentic engagement will lead to stronger connections. Feedback and Insights: Engaging with online communities allows you to gain direct feedback on your ideas, products, or services. This feedback is invaluable for making improvements and tailoring your offerings to meet the needs of your audience. Understanding what your community wants can significantly impact your success. 3. Actively Participate Engaging with online communities requires consistent effort. Regularly contribute to 32

33. Conclusion Engaging with online communities is a powerful strategy for building connections, sharing knowledge, and fostering collaboration in the digital age. Whether you are an individual seeking to expand your network or a brand looking to enhance visibility, the benefits of engaging with online communities are undeniable. By following best practices and committing to authentic interactions, you can leverage these platforms to achieve your goals. discussions, answer questions, and provide helpful resources. By being an active participant, you will establish yourself as a valuable member of the community, increasing your visibility and influence. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, the importance of connecting with others through online communities will continue to grow. Embrace the opportunity to engage, learn, and grow within these vibrant spaces. Ultimately, the connections you make today can pave the way for future success, both personally and professionally. 4. Listen and Learn Engagement is a two-way street. While sharing your insights is important, it’s equally crucial to listen to others. Pay attention to the conversations happening within the community and learn from different perspectives. This approach will help you adapt your contributions and better meet the needs of the community. 5. Foster Relationships Building relationships takes time. Focus on nurturing connections with community members rather than solely promoting your agenda. Offer support, engage in meaningful conversations, and follow up with individuals you connect with. These relationships can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations down the line. In summary, whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply someone looking to connect with others, remember the significance of engaging with digital communities. This practice not only enriches your life but also contributes to the collective knowledge and support that these digital spaces provide. So, dive in, be present, and make the most of your online community experiences! 6. Monitor and Adapt As you engage with online communities, monitor the effectiveness of your interactions. Pay attention to which posts resonate most with your audience and adjust your strategy accordingly. Adaptability is essential for staying relevant and maintaining engagement over time. www.visionarycios.com | 33

36. w w w . v i s i o n a r y c i o s . c o m