What's Happening?
Mountain View High School Principal Kip Glazer has introduced an innovative internship program that emphasizes leadership development rather than just technology skills. Speaking at the 2026 Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) in Orlando,
Glazer highlighted the program's focus on communication and collaboration skills as foundational to developing leadership abilities. The program is structured around three pillars: on-campus tech support, community outreach, and technical projects, managed by six student leaders. This approach aims to provide real-world experiences without the need for extensive off-campus resources, addressing equity challenges in career readiness by ensuring all students have access to leadership opportunities.
Why It's Important?
The program's emphasis on leadership over technical skills reflects a broader educational trend recognizing the enduring value of human capabilities in an increasingly tech-driven world. As technology evolves, the ability to communicate, collaborate, and lead remains crucial. This initiative could serve as a model for other schools, particularly those with limited resources, to develop strong student leaders. By focusing on leadership, the program prepares students for a future where adaptability and interpersonal skills are as important as technical proficiency, potentially influencing educational policies and practices nationwide.
What's Next?
Looking forward, the program's success could inspire similar initiatives in other schools, promoting a shift in educational priorities towards leadership and human skills. As technology continues to change, the program's adaptability and focus on human capabilities may become increasingly relevant. Schools may explore ways to integrate such leadership-focused programs into their curricula, potentially leading to broader educational reforms that prioritize holistic student development over purely technical training.
