The Sanford School Department has appointed Leesa Joiner as its new IT director, bringing more than two decades of technology education experience to the role. Joiner impressed the interview committee with her strong qualifications, school experience and vision for the role.
Joiner, who holds a Master’s degree in Educational Technology and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education Leadership, has served as both a technology educator and tech integrator at various levels throughout her career.
“The opportunity to help Sanford students and staff use the tools they have to accomplish what they want and need is one of the reasons I was interested in this position,” Joiner said. “I’ve been in technology education for over 20 years, and am always motivated to help educators provide learning opportunities for their students.”
Joiner’s immediate focus centers on understanding the people she’ll be serving. “My first priority is to become familiar with the people - staff and students. I want to know their needs, and how I can help,” she said.
“We are pleased to have Leesa join our team,” Sanford Superintendent Matt Nelson said. “Her background as an educator and her passion for technology will serve our district well. She has already hit the ground running by meeting with key stakeholders to learn how she can best support our students and staff.”
Beyond assessment, Joiner plans to implement processes that will save both time and money for the district. She’s also looking ahead to expanding educational opportunities, particularly in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) programs.
“I would like to see more STEAM related activities, especially at the elementary school level.” She is actively researching grant opportunities to help fund these initiatives.
Joiner replaces former IT director Kerry Hanson, who accepted a teaching position as the Information Technology and Networking instructor at Sanford Regional Technical Center.