Award Recipient - Technology Staff: Dana Beller

Dana Beller

Dana Beller is a tech enthusiast with eight years of experience in the field. My journey began without any prior tech background or formal education, but I've thrived in this ever-evolving landscape. Currently, I'm dedicated to providing top-notch Aeries support and managing all things CalPads for my district. The role keeps me on my toes, which suits me perfectly as I tend to seek out variety and change. What truly drives me is the opportunity to help others. I find genuine joy in assisting my colleagues and stakeholders, and I'm committed to making positive changes within my district.

How long have you been in your current role and how did you get there?

"I’ve been in my current role for 8 years. I originally came from an insurance background and sought a position within a school district while my children were attending school. When I applied for this role, I didn’t realize it was in technology, and honestly, I felt a bit intimidated! I started by supporting the school sites with Aeries and assisting my predecessor with CalPads. Over the years, our team has expanded, and I now work full-time in CalPads, creating processes and procedures and providing Level 2 support for Aeries. It's been a fulfilling experience, and I truly appreciate the opportunities I've had to grow in this ever-evolving field!"

What's a recent win you've had at work?

"Recently, I’ve had a significant win as a Student Information Technician by transitioning from feeling overwhelmed to experiencing a sense of confidence and teamwork. Initially managing tasks alone, I shifted my focus to building a strong, collaborative team through knowledge sharing, process documentation, open communication, and delegating responsibilities.

We conducted several training sessions, created detailed guides, and fostered an environment of continuous learning, gradually assigning tasks to develop our team members’ skills. This approach has significantly improved our team’s efficiency.

Most importantly, when I recently took personal time off, I felt reassured knowing my team could handle everything in my absence. This success reflects our collective growth and the effective support system we’ve established, making my role much more manageable."

How long have you been a CITE member? What is your favorite memory from a CITE event?

"I’ve been a CITE member for eight years, and my top two favorite memories were seeing Bill Nye in person and singing karaoke with our team at the President's Reception."

What do you do in your limited free time?

"I love spending time with my husband and our two kids. We enjoy being outdoors, whether it's off-roading, camping, or exploring new places. I also spend as much time as possible with my two nieces and nephew."

Are there any special shout outs you'd like to give to someone in your life or the CITE community who has made a special impact on you?

"I want to give a shoutout to my director, Jason Buchanan, and Mariana Torres, our Equity and Access Director. I really admire their leadership and dedication to our students and staff.

Jason always goes the extra mile for our team. He encourages us to take initiative and really leads by example. Whenever I’m stuck or need help finding solutions for our school sites or processes, he’s always there, prioritizing what’s best for everyone. His clear explanations make me feel informed and supported—he's a great boss!

And then there’s Mariana—she’s fantastic! She’s always available to chat when I have questions or uncertainties about processes. I love how approachable she is; she treats me like an equal and guides me with respect and understanding, despite her significant responsibilities as a director.

I hope to learn as much as I can from both of them!"

If someone is intimidated or reluctant to get involved with CITE, what advice would you give them?

"If someone feels intimidated or reluctant to get involved with CITE, I recommend reaching out to other members to learn about their experiences and insights. Start by attending regional meetings and participating in the annual conference—both are incredibly beneficial. The networking opportunities and wealth of knowledge you gain are invaluable.

Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to incredible opportunities; the CITE community is welcoming and supportive!"