Many students know Mr. Kenneth Harris Jr. as either “Ken” or the “IT guy.” We were interested in getting to know a bit more about the man who gets cheers from students when he enters a classroom. Yoni Sapadin ('18), a student who has known Mr. Harris in his roles as IT technician both here in TABC and at Moriah, said that Mr. Harris is “the most jolly guy I've met, from his skippy gait to his huge, friendly smile, Ken is just a big bundle of joy.” We interviewed Mr. Harris to gain more insight into both his professional and personal interests. Here are our questions and Mr. Harris’ responses:
What is your favorite part of being the IT guy here at TABC?
I get great joy out of seeing the reaction on the faces of our students... while correcting technical issues that occur in the classrooms from time to time.
What is your average day here at TABC? What’s your favorite day to be in school?
My days at TABC are filled with research, troubleshooting and helpdesk request. That’s just part of it… on game night, TABC Rocks! You would have to experience the energy for yourself to fully understand the type of excitement that I am referring to.
What is it like to be widely admired by the TABC Student Body?
It is an amazing feeling to be admired and respected by the TABC Student body. Your energy and excitement in the hallways is an incredible sight to behold.
Do agree with the widespread view that Smart-boards should be called “DumbBoards”?
I have a love-hate relationship with our Smart-boards. On that note, I would have to say that “Dumb-board” is an appropriate description based on the location of the Board. The tremendous amount of problems have come up regularly in rooms 4, 17, and 9.
Do you like the new Smart-board in Classroom 9?
The board in Room 9 is called a Promethean Board and I do love it. My hope is to have this model board placed in additional rooms moving forward.
Have you ever been asked to perform a task that you didn’t understand or a task that you've never done before?
I have. I also love a challenge and begin researching all topics pertaining to the task that I have been asked to perform. If I am still not comfortable performing the task, I'll recommend someone.
What is your favorite recreational activity?
Find me a great movie and some popcorn and I am good to go. I enjoy road trips with my family as well.
Do you have any interesting hobbies or interests?
I love to travel… attempt to visit an island every year when possible. I love the ocean, enjoy swimming, photography and art in general.
Are the rumors true of you becoming a stand-up comedian?
I might have missed my calling regarding becoming a stand-up comedian. Seriously, they are just rumors. I am the corniest person on the planet.
The interaction between students (and teachers) and technology in the school is run by Mr. Harris. Though he is thought to be a serious person, it is clear that there is also a humorous side to the IT guy that we all know. With all his knowledge in technology, we know and trust that Ken will continue to bring the best to TABC, keeping us up to date with education-enhancing technology, which so enriches student life. Next time you pass Ken in the hallway, say thank you for all his work that he does on a daily basis. Hopefully in the future, he can visit as many islands as he can, accomplish his stand-up comedian dream, and keep TABC’s technology running.