Welcome to the ITS4ED Podcast! It’s time to trade keyboards for controllers, code for combos, and IT tickets for teamwork because today, we’re not just troubleshooting, we're gaming! Welcome to the first-ever IT Staff Esports Competition, where skill, strategy, and friendly rivalry come together to celebrate the incredible talent within our IT teams.

This event is more than just gaming, it's about building community, promoting wellness through play, and highlighting the creativity, collaboration, and competitive spirit that powers our work every day. Let’s hear about how this event unfolded, the unexpected upsets, and most importantly, the fun had by all.

Host: Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager

Los Angeles Unified Guests:

• Miguel Alfaro, ITST II
• Isaiah Duenas, ITST II
• Oliver Hament, Deputy Director ITCS
• Jay Iiams, ITST
• Raymond Jones, ITST
• Guillermo Munoz, ITBEA

ITS is on a journey to share all technology within the District that supports students. Today we’re learning about the world of AAC—Augmentative and Alternative Communication—and Assistive Technology, or AT. We will discuss technology tools, low, mid, and high tech, that support learning and improve communication, engagement, and participation for thousands of our students every day. Whether you're an educator, a family member, or a service provider, today’s conversation is for you.

For more information visit the following websites:

• Special Education Instruction / Assistive Technology
• PrAACtical AAC
• Project Core – A Stepping-Up Technology Implementation Grant Directed by the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager

Los Angeles Unified Guests:

• Malika Ferrell, Assistive Technology Assessor
• Steve Kim, Assistive Technology Coordinator
• Erin Hong , Language and Speech Coordinator
• Stacy Hotchkiss, Language and Speech Specialist
• Nashana Steele, Language and Speech Specialist

Date: March 29, 2025

Location: Beehive

Time: 9-3 pm

Welcome to a very special episode of the IT4ED podcast. Today we’re diving into the electric atmosphere and unforgettable moments from the inaugural LAUSD Esports Competition and iDREAM Showcase, held on March 29th at the Beehive!

Over 50 schools joined us this season, and after a thrilling playoff run, 16 powerhouse teams, 8 from middle schools and 8 from high schools, battled it out for the ultimate bragging rights and the trophies!

The energy was absolutely off the charts. With over 700 attendees including students, families, educators, college reps, community partners, and top LAUSD leadership including members from our executive, the Beehive was buzzing all day long.

And it wasn’t just about the competition. From sim car racing and VR dodgeball to drone flying, digital fabrication, music design, and even hands-on PC building, the iDREAM Showcase delivered next-level experiences. Oh, and let’s not forget the epic Marvel Rivals matches inside the legendary iDREAM trailer.

A huge shoutout to our champions, Franklin High School, and Maclay Middle School, for taking home the LAUSD Esports trophies and making history.

So, buckle up, because in this episode, we’re bringing you behind the scenes of one of the most exciting days in LAUSD esports history. Let’s go!

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified

Guests:

• Various attendees at the event

Welcome to the ITS4ED podcast, where we will be exploring the exciting world of telehealth in our schools. Are you a parent, educator, healthcare provider, or just someone curious about the future of student well-being? Then you're in the right place. From addressing physical health needs to managing chronic conditions, telehealth is revolutionizing how we deliver healthcare to students. It's closing gaps in access, lowering absenteeism, expanding the reach of school nurses, and ultimately, creating a healthier learning environment for every child.

https://www.lausd.org/Page/18398

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified - 213.604.4661

Guests:

• Dr. Smita Malhotra, Medical Director (@drsmita_md)
• Paulina Rock, Executive Director, Health and Emergency Response
• Susan David, Director Community Engagement, Health and Emergency Response

Welcome to the iTS4ED podcast. Today, we will share stories of resilience, community action, and positive change. We’re discussing something that’s touched the lives of many people - we’re talking about the devastating wildfires that have impacted our communities, especially local schools. These wildfires have not only destroyed homes and landscapes, but they've also disrupted the lives of students, employees, and families.

But amidst this crisis, there have been incredible efforts to support and rebuild. Today, we’re joined by members of our ITS team who have been at the forefront of efforts to help schools during this challenging time.

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified

Guests:

• Patrick Hume Dawson, IT Operations Manager
• Brian Andasol, ITST Supervisor
• Guiler, Nikolas, Director of IT Infrastructure Projects
• David Kooper, Senior Director of IT Customer Support

Welcome to another episode of iTS4ED podcast. Today, we’re excited to explore a topic that’s close to our hearts: fostering a future where women thrive in IT leadership roles. We’ll discuss how we can create inclusive work environments and empower women to reach their full potential through a unique mentoring program. We’ll delve into strategies for lifelong learning, the power of strong networks, and the importance of equal representation in leadership positions.

Join us as we inspire the next generation of female IT leaders and celebrate the incredible strides women have made in Los Angeles Unified.

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified

Guests:

• Rose Marchione, IT Solutions Tech, Los Angeles Unified
• Katherine Palmeri, IT Solutions Tech, Los Angeles Unified
• Yenny Warren, IT Solutions Tech, Los Angeles Unified
• Daniela Ojeda-Gomez, ITST1,Los Angeles Unified
• Carla Barrera-Ortiz, Director, Los Angeles Unified
• Mary Lu Camacho, Sr Admin, ITCS, Los Angeles Unified

Welcome to iTS4ED podcast. In this episode, we are diving into the latest trends and innovations in online education. Did you know that Los Angeles Unified has its own virtual academies? Have you ever wondered what it's like to learn from home? Well, join us as we delve into the benefits, challenges, and future of virtual education.

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified

Guests:

• LaTasha Buck, Virtual Academy Executive Director
• Jesus Angulo, Virtual Academy Administrator of Operations
• Marco Tolj, Business and Entrepreneurship Virtual Academy Principal
• Janet Lee-Ortiz, International Studies and World Languages Virtual Academy Teacher and 2024 LAUSD Teacher of the Year

Welcome to iTS4ED podcast. Today, we are “LMSing”. What’s an LMS? It is the Learning Management System (LMS), a digital platform, that serves as a centralized workspace for teachers and students. It functions like a virtual classroom, allowing teachers to post lessons, assignments, and quizzes. The great thing about this is that students can access materials, submit work, and participate in discussions. The LMS has become an essential tool for education in Los Angeles Unified, providing a flexible, accessible, and engaging learning experience for all users. Join us and learn about “LMSing” in Los Angeles Unified.

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager

Guests:

• School Systems Manager, Robert Rodriquez
• Information Systems Coordinator, John Kwan
• Principal, Sandra Proano-Montañez