My name is Raylene Donson, and I’m excited to share my journey and experiences as an IT Enabler at Rheenendal Primary School, a position I began in July 2024. It's been an incredible journey of learning, growth, and discovery, and I can honestly say it has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience so far.

Before I started at KILT/Edunova, I considered myself fairly computer literate. I was comfortable using basic software and managing tasks on a computer, but little did I know that stepping into this role would open up an entire new world of technology, tools, and skills. My training as part of the team has expanded my knowledge in ways I never anticipated.

What is Kilt/Edunova?

For those who may not be familiar, Kilt/Edunova is an organization that focuses on enhancing educational environments through technology. They are dedicated to empowering educators and schools by providing e-learning solutions and integrating technology into classrooms. As an IT Enabler, I am at the heart of these initiatives—helping teachers incorporate new tech tools into their lessons, ensuring they are comfortable with the equipment, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise. The goal is to make technology an enabler of learning, not a barrier, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to be a part of that mission.

The Challenges and Joys of Starting at Rheenendal Primary

When I first joined Rheenendal Primary School, I was both excited and a little nervous. It was a new environment, and I was tasked with working closely with a team of educators to introduce them to new technologies. Each teacher had their own way of teaching, and not all of them were familiar with the digital tools I was eager to share. It was a learning curve for me as well, as I had to adapt to each teacher’s needs and comfort levels with tech.

But that challenge was also what made the experience so fun. I quickly learned how to connect with each teacher, helping them integrate technology in ways that suited their teaching style. Watching teachers gain confidence in using digital tools and seeing their students engage more deeply with the material was truly rewarding.

The excitement of working with educators who are just as eager to learn and grow as the students they teach makes every day exciting. It’s a constant reminder of how important it is to create an open-minded and flexible environment, especially when introducing new technology.

The Personal and Professional Benefits

One of the greatest aspects of this role is how much it benefits me, both personally and professionally. Every day, I am exposed to new tools, software, and teaching strategies that push me to grow and evolve. With each new technology, I learn something new about how I can better support the teachers I work with and how I can improve my own understanding of the digital landscape.

I have also noticed significant personal growth. I’ve become more patient, understanding, and confident in my ability to solve problems. My communication skills have improved as I work with educators, guiding them through tech challenges and helping them build their digital teaching toolbox.

But it’s not just about the technical skills. I’ve also learned a great deal about the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Working in a school environment, I’ve come to appreciate the value of working together toward a common goal, and how small adjustments can make a world of difference in the classroom.

Growing with Technology

Perhaps the most exciting part of this experience is seeing my own development alongside the growth of technology in education. With every new tool I discover, I feel more empowered to explore new ways to solve problems, share information, and enhance the learning process. Whether it's incorporating interactive whiteboards into lessons, troubleshooting software, or assisting with online learning platforms, I am constantly challenged to keep learning.

And the best part is—technology is always evolving, so my journey of growth is never-ending. As new tools and systems are introduced, I find myself embracing the challenge of mastering them and thinking creatively about how to implement them in the classroom. The world of educational technology is constantly shifting, and I’m excited to be part of this dynamic and ever-changing field.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my work at my school, I am excited about the possibilities for both personal and professional growth. I look forward to further developing my skills, helping teachers embrace technology, and playing a part in the ongoing transformation of education. Each day presents new challenges, but I’ve come to realize that with each challenge comes an opportunity to grow, learn, and make a meaningful impact.

In the end, working at KILT/Edunova has been a rewarding journey of growth, challenge, and continuous learning. I’m proud to be part of a community that values innovation, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside passionate educators who share a commitment to providing the best learning experience for students.

So here’s to the many more lessons, both for me and for the teachers I work with, that lie ahead. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next!