OPSU Expands Information Technology Partnership with Goodwell Public School to Enhance Digital Learning

News release courtesy of Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Oklahoma Panhandle State University is pleased to announce its partnership with Goodwell Public School. The OPSU Information Technology team will expand its services to provide GPS with essential IT support, ensuring that students, teachers, and staff have access to the necessary tools and resources for success in today’s digital age.

The OPSU IT team will provide a range of technology support services to Goodwell Public School, including:

• Network administration: Managing and maintaining the school’s network infrastructure.
• Desktop support: Assisting with computer hardware, software, and peripherals.
• Server management: Overseeing and maintaining the school’s servers.
• Cybersecurity: Implementing measures to protect the school’s network and data from cyber threats.
• Technology training: Offering training and workshops on various technology topics to students, teachers, and staff.

In addition to the expanded partnership, OPSU IT will explore new opportunities to enhance the school’s technology capabilities. This may involve implementing new technologies, developing customized solutions, or providing additional support services.

OPSU and Goodwell Public School have partnered over the years in several areas. One existing partnership includes a facility use partnership for Athletics, which allows Goodwell Public School students to practice and play in sporting events at Anchor D Stadium and in Anchor D Arena. Other initiatives that have operated in the past include an after-school care program. When a need was recognized for a shared IT service, both OPSU and GPS took a closer look to see how we could expand the partnership.

Daniel Byers, a recent OPSU graduate of the 2024 class, took on the role of Academic Technology Coordinator. Working alongside the IT team, his responsibilities will involve leading the integration of technology into the curriculum, providing professional development for faculty and staff, and managing the technology infrastructure. His role will be crucial in ensuring that both institutions have access to the tools and resources necessary to provide a high-quality, innovative, and relevant education in today’s digital age.

The IT team has already begun upgrading campus IT infrastructure by installing new classroom technology this fall semester that will enhance the academic spaces and instruction at OPSU. Upgrades that we’ve already seen on campus include a new help ticket system and the launch of electronic approvals for campus forms. Information Technology will make huge strides this academic year at OPSU as we upgrade the fiber and network gear on campus to boost connectivity and accelerate troubleshooting.

Jerome Ortiz, Director of Information Technology, stated, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to take on the role of IT Director at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. As I step into this position, I am eager to unveil my vision for the IT department and actively pursue opportunities for collaboration to drive innovation and progress.”

Technology is a powerful tool that can improve lives, education, and community. “My objective is to establish OPSU as a trailblazer in technology, not only in the region but in the entire state. I envision a campus where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, from the classroom to the administrative offices,” said Ortiz.

By partnering with Goodwell Public School, OPSU can create a technologically advanced environment for both campuses that nurtures a conducive space for students to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential.

Eddie Smith, Goodwell Public School Superintendent, stated, “We are so blessed to be able to utilize the resources offered by the IT department at Panhandle State. Jerome Ortiz and Daniel Byers were an integral part in getting our school year going in the right direction.”

He continued, “This is going to be yet another great partnership between Goodwell Public Schools and OPSU. The Goodwell School District would like to thank Dr. Dinger, Shawn Joy, and the athletes at OPSU for all the extra things that you do for the district.”

Elizabeth McMurphy, Vice President of Fiscal Affairs, commented, “The future of Information Technology at OPSU is bright. Under the leadership of IT Director Jerome Ortiz, there is excitement in the air about where we’re headed in the realm of technology, as students, faculty, and staff are already seeing new initiatives making a huge impact on their experience. Not only will we see this impact on our campus, but we have the opportunity to partner with and provide a level of service to Goodwell Public School that reaches the students, teachers, administrators, and Goodwell community.”