EChalk

Nancy DeVore

NYC Account Director

Why did you choose to work in education?

Having worked for a number of Internet start-up companies, I had lots of experience working with small teams who dreamed up great technology solutions in hopes of making heaps of money. My family has always been involved in education and not-for-profit organizations and I wanted to be involved with technology that actually made a difference. After working with Columbia University to digitize content for students nationwide, I knew I was close. Then I found eChalk! eChalkers were building technology that really made a difference in the day-to-day life of educators. Perfect!

Describe the eChalk culture.

When I joined eChalk, the team was much smaller. But, we haven’t changed much in the 10 years we’ve been around. No offices—which I love. Ideas are welcomed. Everyone contributes. Everyone is constantly in motion. It’s never boring. And, we have snacks everywhere!

What do you like most about working at eChalk?

I’ve always loved New York City and I get to work directly with NYC schools every day. I enjoy meeting NYC educators in every corner of the city. (Yes, I’m a platinum rider on the MTA!) I’m probably a dork, but I get just as excited as they do when they see their eChalk system go 'live' for the first time…it’s progress and it’s inspiring.  

How would you describe eChalk customers?

NYC principals have crazy-tough jobs with lots of challenges. It’s amazing to me how they can juggle so many roles in one day. But, the NYC principals I’ve met with are passionate about their work and incredibly creative. As a team, we aim to complement the work they already do everyday…not distract them or interrupt their momentum.

Describe your fellow eChalkers.

Now I finally have my opportunity to…oh, wait. Just kidding. Honestly, eChalkers are a clever, motivated bunch of people. I learn new things from them every day—and I’ve been here for years. I’m a fairly competitive person…so, their day-to-day brilliance can be a tad annoying. ;-)

Is there one memory that stands out during the time you’ve worked at eChalk? 

I was training a group of educators early in my career at eChalk. I had instructed the group to 'click on the upper left hand corner of their eChalk system.' A woman in the back of the room who had never used a computer before, lifted the mouse and held it up to the left-hand corner of the monitor. It was her first experience on a computer! After a few shy giggles and a quick lesson on 'how to handle a mouse,' she was off and running. By the end of the session, her online classroom was 'live!' It looked great and she was so proud. She got high-fives from all of her coworkers. I loved it.

What surprised you most about working at eChalk?

Most educators work year-round. Who knew?!

What excites you about the future of eChalk?

We are developing the coolest technology specifically for our NYC schools. I can’t go into details yet, but it’s super exciting and we can’t wait ‘til you see it! Stay tuned! (To the rest of the country: Don’t panic…you’ll get it soon, too!)