Why We Are Here
The goal is simple: we want every volunteer to feel clear, prepared, and confident before leading students during the Future Tech Leaders Summer Program.
This is not about asking everyone to do everything. It's about matching each volunteer's time, comfort level, and interest with the areas where they can make the most meaningful difference.
By the end of this orientation, you should know what the program is, what you will be teaching, and what the next steps are.
You are the instructor
As a GovState student volunteer, you are the teacher. Your knowledge, energy, and passion are exactly what these students need.
First exposure
For some students, this is their very first time exploring IT or coding. One encouraging moment can spark a lifelong career path.
Team approach
You do not have to know everything. This program is built as a team, and every volunteer adds irreplaceable value.
About the Program
The Future Tech Leaders Summer Program is a hands-on technology learning experience offered through GovState and the Jaguars ACM + UPE Student Chapter, in partnership with Bloom High School.
Students explore technology through beginner-friendly workshops, collaborative activities, career conversations, and applied learning experiences with complete beginners in mind from day one.
Hands-on learning
Students learn by doing, exploring IT support, coding, cybersecurity, digital safety, and career pathways through real activities.
Confidence and exposure
Many students explore these topics for the first time here. Your role as the teacher is to make the experience encouraging, organized, and something they will remember.
Be patient, be encouraging, and help students build confidence one step at a time. A supportive space where students feel safe trying and safe making mistakes is everything.
Who our students are
Students arrive with different experience levels. Some are already curious about technology; others are brand new and still finding where they fit. Expect a mix of confidence levels, learning styles, and questions. That is completely normal and part of what makes great teaching.
Create a supportive space where students feel comfortable trying, making mistakes, and asking any question.
Program Schedule at a Glance
The program runs for 10 days, June 18 through July 6, 2026. Sessions alternate between GovState and Bloom High School.
Volunteers are not expected to teach all 10 days. The interest survey will match your availability and subject strengths with the sessions where you can make the biggest impact.
Volunteer Roles
Teaching roles vary depending on the day and your strengths. Every role matters. Choose what fits you best and own it.
Deliver the session lesson, lead activities, and keep students engaged and on track from start to finish.
Run hands-on lab activities, guide students through each step, and manage group work and task transitions.
Lead career exploration conversations, share your own GovState story, and guide students through resume and LinkedIn activities.
Manage arrival, attendance, name tags, materials, and keep daily logistics running smoothly so instructors can focus on teaching.
Coach students through their final projects, give feedback on presentations, and help them organize and communicate their ideas for Day 10.
Handle room setup, cleanup, time management, and overall program flow so each teaching session runs without interruption.
Teaching with Professionalism and Boundaries
Because you are teaching high school students as a GovState volunteer, professionalism and clear boundaries are essential for the safety and comfort of everyone involved.
Always use encouraging and age-appropriate language. Keep student conversations focused on the program and learning activities. Avoid slang, off-topic personal discussions, or language that could make any student uncomfortable.
Do not communicate privately with students outside approved program channels. All student interaction should be visible, in-person during program hours, or through official program communication only. No personal social media, direct messages, or texting.
If a student seems distressed, disengaged, or raises a concern beyond your role, bring it to the program lead or school staff immediately. Do not attempt to handle serious situations alone. That is exactly what the program team is there for.
If you are ever unsure what to do, whether it is a student question you cannot answer, a situation that feels off, or anything else, just ask. There are no wrong questions in this program. Asking is always the right move, and this team will always have your back.
How We Work Together
Communication is kept simple and organized. Volunteers will receive session prep materials before each day they teach, including the topic, lesson outline, materials needed, and expectations.
Microsoft Teams
Primary coordination hub. Updates, reminders, and pre-session details will be shared here before every session.
Before each session
Review your lesson plan, arrive on time, and check in with the program lead for any last-minute updates or teaching assignments.
Your role in sessions
Your job is to guide, not take over. Help students think through problems, keep the energy up, and make every session one they look forward to coming back to.
If you are unsure where to go, what to do, or how to help, just ask. That is exactly why we are building this as a team.
Next Steps
Thank you for stepping up to teach. As GovState student volunteers, you are giving Bloom High School students something they would not otherwise have: a real technology education led by people who genuinely care. Even one session can change how a student sees their future.
Your action items: 0 of 5 completed
- Complete the volunteer interest survey (link below)
- Review the full program calendar (June 18 to July 6, 2026)
- Join the Microsoft Teams workspace for the program
- Watch for Teams updates and pre-session guidance messages
- Ask questions early, the team is here to help you teach and succeed
Volunteer Interest Survey
Select your available dates, preferred volunteer roles, and any scheduling notes. This helps us match you with the sessions where you'll make the biggest impact.