Twenty-first century society is heavily dependent on technology, and schools are no exception. Not only do teachers make great use of technology in lesson presentation, but also students must master ways to use technology in researching, preparing, and presenting material.

Jason Hoyle currently serves as the Instructional Technology Facilitator at Hickory High School. He explains, “I provide technical and instructional support for all faculty, staff, and students through working in collaboration with the IT department and with teachers in content development and lesson planning. I also serve as the media coordinator, webmaster, and local Learning Management System administrator.

“I enjoy working with both students and staff to elevate technology use in the classroom. I sought out a path in instructional technology after realizing how much impact it had on my own teaching in the classroom. Ironically, my first year in this role was the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning for students. I was grateful to be able to help teachers make the transition to remote and, subsequently, hybrid teaching.

“Some days are quite manageable, but other days I am very busy helping students and staff with technology needs. The challenges mirror the rewards of this position. I enjoy helping and supporting the entire staff and students, but it does make for very busy days. One of the greatest rewards in my tenure here has been seeing our staff embrace new technology and new methods of teaching.

“Previous to my appointment at Hickory High School, I taught in Burke County for twelve years. I served as the Director of Bands at Freedom High School from 2005 until 2011 and Director of Bands at Draughn High School from 2013 until 2019. While I enjoyed my time in the music classroom, it was very time demanding. I enjoy a much better work/life balance now, and I believe the experiences from those days have made me more resilient and able to juggle multiple projects at one time.”

Jason’s credentials include Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in Music Education from Appalachian State University and a graduate certificate in Instructional Technology Facilitation also from ASU. He is an Apple Learning Coach and a level 2 Google Certified Educator.

“The inspiration to pursue music education was found in my East Burke High band director, Jon Berry. I loved, and still do, playing and teaching others about music. As I entered my career and began teaching in Burke County, my relationship with Jon changed, and we became colleagues - working together (and sometimes in competition with each other). It has been an interesting dynamic but one for which I am grateful. Jon has inspired so many individuals and left a legacy at East Burke for decades to come.

“Being a part of the East Burke community, and subsequently living in Burke County as I raise my own children, has created a ‘home’ for us. We rely on friends and family in the area with our kids - from various activities after school, plays/musicals, and sports. It becomes quite busy, but having those individuals that I have formed decades long relationships with helps calm the storm.”

Having expertise and experience in more than one field of education can provide many pathways for success in the future. “I hesitate to label any future career as I never would have guessed I would be in the position I am now even five years ago. There are many aspects of teaching band I do miss; however, it was re-energizing to take a step back and head in a new direction with instructional technology.

“I do wish I had the opportunity to once again work in Burke County, closer to home. That may be in my future, but for now I will do the best job I can in my current role and continue to grow. I do not see myself leaving the education field but my roles may change as opportunities arise.”

Published March 2023

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