Program Overview

Launched in 2023, the K-12 IT Technician Program, has become a key component of CITE's Education Pathway Programs. Designed for early career growth, this program covers IT basics, K-12 education foundations, and career development support. Completion of all class meetings, self-guided content, and required assignments will provide a certification, certificate, and badge. The KITT certification will be renewable upon completion of 8 continuing education units (CEUs) each year after graduating from the program.

The KITT Program has been designed to support:

• K-12 IT technicians with 1-5 years of experience 
• K-12 staff looking to move into technology departments 
• IT staff working outside of K-12 looking to move to an LEA

The program consists of four modules:

• Module 1: Foundational Tech Skills
• Module 2: The K-12 Environment
• Module 3: IT Technician Skills
• Module 4: Personal & Career Development

Watch this video for more information on the CITE K-12 IT Technician Program (KITT).

    

  

Modules

Module 1: Foundational Tech Skills

Technology Basics in the K-12 Environment

• Identify the essential components that make up a school district's network infrastructure.
• Describe the roles and purposes fulfilled by various operating systems within K-12 education.
• Explain the purpose and significance of hardware components and devices used in an educational setting.
• Recognize education-specific software and told, including SIS, LMS, and mass communication systems.
• Assess the effectiveness of implemented cybersecurity strategies within a K-12 setting.

Unique Systems in an Educational Environment

• Understand the role of A/V technology in enhancing the classroom learning experience.
• Identify various peripheral devices used in educational settings
• Analyze the components and protocols of security systems deployed in educational institutions, and I.T.'s role in monitoring and maintaining these systems.

Module 2: The K-12 Environment

The Ethos of K-12 Environment

• The Educational Environment vs. Corporate Environment
• The overall goal: a Student-Centric Approach
• How I.T. supports pedagogy
• The school calendar and seasonal demands
  • Teaching schedules
  • Summer projects
  • Start of a school year
  • Testing season
• Regulatory Compliance and Child Safety

Challenges in a K-12 Environment

• Limited Budget and Resources
• Ensuring Data Privacy and Security
• User Training and Support
• Device Management and End-of-Life Cycle
• Balancing Innovation and Stability

Module 3: IT Technician Skills

Becoming a K-12 IT Professional

• Apply problem-solving skills (including prioritization, elevation, and escalation processes) to the use of ticketing systems commonly employed in K-12 I.T. support.
• Identify project management skills suitable for overseeing and executing technology-related projects within K-12 educational settings, ensuring successful outcomes.
• Understand the basics of professionalism and customer service in a K-12 environment, including effective person-to-person communication, to enhance interactions with students, staff, and stakeholders.
• Evaluate the importance of maintaining comprehensive documentation, incorporating effective writing and organizational techniques, to support efficient information management within the K-12 I.T. department. 
• Learn how to collaborate effectively within a team environment, fostering cooperation and synergy among I.T. support staff.

Module 4: Personal & Career Development

Career Development & Department Expectations

• Understand the various kinds of educational backgrounds and certifications that support K-12 I.T. department.
• Develop a personalized plan for pursuing a specialization or career path within the I.T. field, incorporating strategies for ongoing learning and skill development to stay current in the industry.
• Practice essential skills needed in the hiring process - resume development, effective interviewing techniques, and navigating platforms like EdJoin - to enhance career prospects within the K-12 education sector.
• Refine interview skills through mock interviews conducted by experienced I.T. administrators and CTOs.

For Virtual Cohorts: Each module will include two online class sessions, which will be held every Thursday from 9:00 - 11:30 am. Attendance at all sessions is required to receive the certification. Please note, the next virtual cohort will be offered Spring 2027.

KITT Fall 2026 In-Person Schedule - hosted at Imperial County COE 

• September 25 | 3:30-4:30 (Zoom) - Candidate Onboarding
• October 8 | 9:00 AM-2:30 PM (In Person) - Module 1
• October 9 | 9:00 AM-2:30 PM (In Person) - Module 2
• October 15 | 9:00 AM-2:30 PM (In Person) - Module 3
• October 16 | 9:00 AM-2:30 PM (In Person) - Module 4

Cost

Cost for the KITT Program is listed below. If you have any questions regarding your CITE member status, please reach out to membership@cite.org.

• CITE Members: $2000
• Non-Members: $2400

CITE Foundation Scholarship Information

The CITE Foundation is proud to offer financial assistance for one KITT candidate per cohort.  Click here to apply for our KITT Scholarship (please note the deadline to apply is the same as the enrollment deadline).

Scholarship Information

• Two (2) scholarships are available, one (1) each for the Spring and Fall Cohorts.
• Scholarship includes tuition.  

CITE Foundation