Meet a Maverick: Diane Ulrich

Diane Ulrich has quite the responsibility at both CC/E and Sioux Central schools.

"I keep everything technology related up and running for the staff and students," she explained. "At CC/E I am responsible for everything from the network to the student and teacher devices."

To say her job is vital for both districts would be an understatement, especially given the current pandemic climate requiring virtual learning to be ready and present as an option. CC/E is a 1:1 district with students PK-2 having iPads in the classroom and 2-6 using Chromebooks. The teachers have Windows 10 computers and access to the other devices, too. All classrooms have a projector and an interactive SMARTboard, and the school also has a huge STEM room with a 3D printer, robots, Google Expeditions Virtual Reality and much more.

Ulrich prepared herself for her current position by obtaining her degree in Computer Science and Business Administration from Minnesota State University in Mankato. She started her career as a programmer all while learning and gaining more skills such as server maintenance, networking and website design.

This combination of skills is the perfect blend for school districts that have such varied needs.

"Before coming to work at CC/E I worked as a technology coordinator at Jackson County Central Community Schools in Jackson, Minn., and before that I worked as a programmer at a couple different companies including Disney," Ulrich said.

This year marks Ulrich's fifth year at CC/E. She loves the small school atmosphere the district offers.

"I have had the opportunity to lead Google Expeditions and internet safety training with many of the classrooms," she said.

Ulrich always looks forward to the first week in December when she and the students participate in an "Hour of Code," where she is able to lead the students in coding activities.

Ulrich spends her spare time camping, fishing, gardening, attending music festivals, and traveling the world.