Steve Richardson
Summary
Accomplished technology leader with extensive experience driving strategic digital transformation and managing all technology operations within complex educational environments. Proven success in fiscal responsibility, leading high-performing technical teams, and ensuring robust cybersecurity and network infrastructure. Expert in data fluency and analytics, consistently translating complex datasets into actionable insights to inform critical district decisions and improve educational outcomes.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Technology
Homewood-Flossmoor High School
07.2021 - Current
- Established data governance protocols and ensured the integrity, protection, and security of all school information systems to support accurate data analytics and reporting.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to educational IT operations.
- Developed comprehensive cybersecurity and disaster recovery plans to ensure data security and availability during times of crisis.
- Managed the technology budget, making strategic purchasing decisions for hardware, software, and services, consistently demonstrating fiscal responsibility.
- Key administrative advisor to the Cabinet, guiding decisions on technology investments, risk mitigation, and strategic long-range planning. Accountable for aligning the comprehensive technology strategy with all district educational priorities.
- Held ultimate responsibility for the integrity and delivery of all ISBE reporting, serving as the final point of authority on student data.
Assistant Director of Computer Services-Network Administrator
Homewood-Flossmoor High School
01.2002 - 06.2021
- Supports and manages LANs, WANs, Internet, and Intranet systems.
- Conducts regular audits to ensure all frameworks and processes that have been integrated into the system are working properly, efficiently and in accordance with the goals, objectives, and vision of Homewood-Flossmoor H.S.
- Presided over analysis and strategy planning, budgeting for E-Rate, District technology, and other department-specific needs.
- Coordinated with vendors to procure hardware and software, ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and educational needs.
- Collaborated with educational staff to identify technology needs and integrate solutions into classroom environments.
- Trained staff on best practices for technology usage and cybersecurity awareness, enhancing overall digital literacy.
- Ensure the stability and security of the network by regularly monitoring systems and troubleshooting potential problems.
- Maintain data security and ensure integrity, protection of all school information.
- Implemented many process improvements to streamline department tasks and mentored others on new procedures.
President
R.S. Technologies
01.1994 - 01.2002
- Collaborated with Computer Services Director to facilitate staff hiring, new technology rollouts, and emerging technology exploration.
- Evaluated customer networks and provided direction and implementation of emerging technologies.
- Installed and maintained components of various networks at all levels of support.
- Developed software and hardware solutions tailored to the educational market.
- Controlled all aspects of business operations.
Education
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate -
Cornell University
NY04.2023
Technology Leadership Certificate -
Cornell University
NY08.2022
Associates - Electronic Engineering
ITT Technical Institute
Schaumburg, IL06.1991
Skills
- IT Infrastructure
- Data Analytics Platforms
- State Reporting
- Analytical Skills
- Data Integrity & Quality Assurance
- Cybersecurity Expertise
- Team Oriented
- Information Security
- Critical Thinking
- Excellent Communication
- Data and IT Governance
- Network Architecture
Certification
- CoSN Certified Educational Technology Leader
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
- Network+
PUBLICATIONS
Published in Education Technology Insights https://bit.ly/4pefDU2
Timeline
Director of Technology
Homewood-Flossmoor High School
07.2021 - Current
Assistant Director of Computer Services-Network Administrator
Homewood-Flossmoor High School
01.2002 - 06.2021
President
R.S. Technologies
01.1994 - 01.2002
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate -
Cornell University
Technology Leadership Certificate -
Cornell University
Associates - Electronic Engineering
ITT Technical Institute