INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Jarrod Walters, Atwater Bay Elementary School

Jarrod Walters is the technical support representative at Atwater Bay Elementary School.

He is responsible for keeping all technology at the school functioning, but he also will help anywhere that is needed. 

Walters also served as the coach for Math Olympics. 

“While he is shared between two schools, so he only serves Atwater Bay Elementary half-time, his impact is huge,” Atwater Bay Principal Matthew Hendricks said. “Not only does he keep our school’s technology functioning, (but also) he gives back so much more to the school. For example, he coached our Math Olympics team, he’s worked on our school’s musical, and he serves as site supervisor for after-school functions. Whenever there is a problem, Jarrod is able to work on swift solutions.”

What do you love most about Atwater Bay Elementary School?

The staff are a team and we take care of (one another). I have worked with most of them for these four years at OCPS. We work together for the students.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

In the various jobs I have had, working at schools is by far my favorite. Putting systems in place that allow students to learn and grow.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?

Owning my own business as I have in the past. But working at schools is a much more rewarding experience for me.

Who influences you?

What influences me is a well constructed and presented argument. It shows the presenter has done the research and knows the material. Now it will be scrutinized for things like, false premises or other unknown knowledge, but it shows research, thought and effort went into it.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

The most influential teacher by far was my mentor, Ms. Davis. Not only did she open the work of in seventh grade Exploratory Computers class, (but also) I then worked with her learning everything I could for the next 12 years without slowing down. Someone (who) never slowed down like me.

What is your favorite movie or TV show and why?

“Jurassic Park” just satisfies the kid in me. But I will take any stories that are well constructed, smart, make you think and maybe experience something new.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

If I am not having the time of my life hanging out with my daughter, I like camping, adventuring, hanging with friends, learning something new and playing video games. 

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Randomly pick any person (who) has ever lived and give me a universal translator. I bet I would come away with a fascinating story and perhaps some new knowledge.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I already have them. People have always pointed out my drive to do things is very strong. I can take a situation or project with many moving parts and naturally be able to “project manage” it to completion with much stress. But then, @Cracked on YouTube, made a compelling argument for the Zack Morris Time Out in “Saved by the Bell.” It allows you to affect future events as they happen without disrupting or drawing attention to your life. (Video is NSFW.)

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

That sounds horrible. I like so many different songs across genres and artists. I usually only like a few songs from an artist.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

There was this open-face taco-type thing at school. Loved them.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Halloween. The style is just my thing. I love the creativity and effort of dressing up.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

Brian has been my best friend since middle school because our love of technology, learning, exploring and doing better. We experienced life. We recently got together, and my daughter now has another uncle.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

Ever since seventh grade Advanced Computers, it has all been about learn and using technology to make something new or more efficient. When I wasn’t forced to go to my classes, I was in the media center working on something technology related. I was surprised and honored to receive the Technology Achievement Award at the end of my senior year. It was an award the school staff created for me. 

What is a fun fact about you that people would be surprised to learn?

I can be one of the girls. I am a scout leader for my daughter’s Scouting America Girl Troop 325. As I write this, I am wearing one of their pink camping shirts. It is so bright.