Don & Linda Messinger

Don and Linda have been a huge part of the Coatesville community for over 25 years.  They also have a son that graduated from Coatesville in 2002.  Not only are these two lifelong Coatesville activists, but both served the district: Don worked  in the district’s Technology department, and Linda served on the board from 1996 – 2000.  

Don:

After spending nearly 25 years at monthly board meetings, I was elated to find a group of people who wanted more than just tax relief. People who cared about education, our teachers, and our district. I don't remember who found who but when asked to join CCAP, I excitedly said yes. I have not been disappointed.

Prior to retiring, I worked as a software developer and data manager for a major engineering firm. I have been involved with technology in the district, both directly and indirectly for 20+ years starting with the original 5 year strategic plan. Later I was asked to join the Technology Task Force (TTF) which I chaired for some 12 years. The TTF consisted of Admin, teachers, and community members and was responsible for providing the district with advice and expertise in purchasing, deploying, and using technology.  Among the task force's accomplishments were the selection of Computer Curriculum Corporation as our first ILS (integrated learning system), upgrades of our library circulation (Follett) and business (Pentamation) software, development of guidance on grade level technology education skills, tech specs for network upgrades, introduction of wireless systems, and development of the first district web site. 

In 2006 I was asked to join the CASD Technology Department as the district's Data Specialist but spent the bulk of my time working with teachers in their classrooms to integrate available technology. I was also tasked with development and management the district's Moodle effort (managing about 600 classroom and building websites) as well as providing the requisite training. My last two years with the district I was put in charge of the district's warehouse, keeping an inventory of all tech resources as well as doing daily monitoring of computer use across the district. I kept in close touch with the department when I left the district in 2012 after 7 years of service. In summary, I have been involved with most of the major tech programs/initiatives and have a fairly good understanding of how this district has traditionally approached technology.

CCAP – Why we are better together:  With the new 1:1 devices coming to our district for the 2019-2020 school year, CCAP knows how important it is for CASD technology department to operate smoothly and efficiently.  However, we have noticed many issues this last few years that give us concern as we move forward in implementing 1:1 devices.   

Thankfully we have Don and Linda Messinger on our team!  Both have been such outspoken members of our community for over 25 years and they aren’t stopping just yet.  Linda’s knowledge of board policy and her willingness to call anyone out on the things that are being done wrong brings fire to the group!  Don’s vast knowledge in technology and this district brings issues to light so the community can ask the right questions.