Michael Marassa, Chief Technology Officer
Professional Overview
Michael Marassa is an experienced technology leader with a proven track record of driving innovation and digital transformation in the education sector. As the Chief Technology Officer at New Trier High School District, he is responsible for overseeing the district's technology strategy, infrastructure, and implementation to support the evolving needs of students, faculty, and staff.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Michael has served as the Chief Technology Officer at New Trier High School District since May 2020. In this role, he is responsible for aligning the district's technology initiatives with its educational goals, ensuring seamless technology integration across all aspects of the school system. He has spearheaded the implementation of cutting-edge learning management systems, cybersecurity protocols, and data analytics tools, enhancing the overall digital experience for the school community.
Under Michael's leadership, the district has achieved significant improvements in student engagement, teacher productivity, and operational efficiency through the strategic deployment of technology. He has fostered a culture of innovation, empowering his team to explore and implement novel solutions that address the unique challenges faced by the education industry.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Michael served as the Director of Technology at Grayslake High School District 127 from 2011 to 2020. In this position, he was responsible for overseeing the district's technology infrastructure, supporting the integration of digital tools in the classroom, and driving the development of technology-enabled learning initiatives.
Throughout his career, Michael has demonstrated a deep understanding of the evolving technology landscape and its impact on the education sector. He has actively participated in industry organizations, such as serving as a Board Member for the IETL (Illinois Educational Technology Leaders) since 2022, to stay at the forefront of emerging trends and best practices.
Academic Background
Michael holds a Master's degree in Educational Technology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he graduated with distinction. His specialized knowledge in educational technology, combined with his strong leadership abilities, has been instrumental in shaping his successful career.
Areas of Expertise
- Educational technology strategy and implementation
- Cybersecurity and data privacy in the education sector
- Learning management systems and digital curriculum development
- Technology-enabled teaching and learning methodologies
- IT infrastructure management and systems integration
- Technology team leadership and talent development
Professional Impact
Under Michael's guidance, New Trier High School District has been recognized as a leader in educational technology, winning several awards and accolades for its innovative initiatives. Most notably, the district was named the "Most Tech-Savvy School District" by the Illinois Association of School Administrators in 2021, a testament to Michael's strategic vision and the transformative impact of his work.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic mindset, and commitment to educational technology, Michael Marassa is poised to continue driving digital transformation and enhancing the learning experience for students, teachers, and administrators at New Trier High School District. As he navigates the evolving landscape of education technology, his expertise and visionary leadership will be instrumental in shaping the district's future successes.
