At Richardson North Junior High, technology and creativity come together through an elite group of students known as the Tech Team. Now in its third year, this student-led and staff-supported organization—guided by Instructional Coach Jamie Ridgway—is truly one-of-a-kind in the Richardson Independent School District (RISD).
Students are recommended at the end of their 7th-grade year to join the Tech Team, but earning a spot is no easy task. Before becoming members, students must participate in a panel interview, run primarily by current Tech Team members. This student-led process gives applicants real-world interview experience while allowing returning members to strengthen their leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Once selected, new Tech Team members are drafted during WIN Time, where they begin taking on real-world projects that make a visible impact across the campus. Teachers can “hire” Tech Team students for a wide range of creative and technical tasks—everything from filming and editing Student Council videos to designing classroom signage, branding, and lesson materials.
Under Ms. Ridgway’s direction, the Tech Team’s portfolio continues to expand. Members have created and manage the AVID, Choir, and Theater websites, and they also assist with the design and content of the RNJH student website. One of their most recent accomplishments is the creation of a student event calendar, now featured on every student’s Chromebook landing page to keep the RNJH community connected and informed.
Perhaps one of the most impressive achievements of the Tech Team is their work in rebranding the entire RNJH campus. The students designed and produced the door wraps, front entry banners, hallway signage, and classroom signs that now give the building its cohesive, professional look. This project not only beautified the school but also gave students authentic design and project management experience.
Beyond their creative and design work, Tech Team members also present professional development sessions to RNJH staff twice a year. Last year’s focus was Magic School AI, where students not only trained teachers on the platform but were also invited to present at RISD’s District Wide Day. Their sessions drew standing-room-only crowds of secondary teachers from across the district—a huge accomplishment for these young innovators. This year, the team’s PD focus is School AI, another emerging platform designed to help teachers streamline lesson planning and classroom support.
What makes the RNJH Tech Team especially remarkable is that students do not receive a grade or course credit for their work. Their motivation comes from passion, pride, and a desire to learn. Through the experience, students gain valuable skills in project management, collaboration, constructive feedback, and time management. They also have opportunities to interview for leadership roles, such as project managers, preparing them for future academic and professional success.
Thanks to the vision and leadership of Instructional Coach Jamie Ridgway, the RNJH Tech Team continues to set the standard for innovation, creativity, and student empowerment. By merging technology and design with authentic learning experiences, Richardson North Junior High is showing what’s possible when students are trusted to lead, create, and inspire.
