Introduction
The Prairie School actively manages its comprehensive Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 educational technology and campus infrastructure. The school maintains a 1:1 device program, utilizing Chromebooks and iPads, alongside an integrated Google Workspace for Education environment. Operational initiatives include continuous development of its STEM-focused Wonder Lab, ongoing management of the PowerSchool student information system, and sustained maintenance of campus facilities and safety systems.
These technology and infrastructure commitments create operational pressure for system integration, device lifecycle management, and secure data handling. Systems like Google Classroom and PowerSchool are central to daily operations, requiring consistent support and optimization. Vendors can support The Prairie School in areas such as device fleet management, learning platform enhancements, specialized STEM equipment, and critical campus operational technology.
The Prairie School Snapshot
Location: Wind Point, WI
School District: Independent Private School
Grades Served: PK-12
Technology Environment: Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals, Google Classroom, PowerSchool, 1:1 Chromebook and iPad program, dedicated STEM Wonder Lab with 3D printers and robotics equipment.
Key Initiative: Ongoing optimization of digital learning platforms and dedicated STEM resources to support a comprehensive PK-12 curriculum.
Website: https://www.prairieschool.com
Recent Funding and Procurement Activity
| Funding Activity | Amount | Operational Area | Current School-Level Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| No publicly available information on specific funding or procurement activities with exact dollar amounts for 2026. | - | - | - |
Leadership and Key Buying Personas
| Name | Role | Department | Public Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nat Coffman | Head of School & President | School Leadership | ncoffman@prairieschool.com |
| Steve Joost | Assistant Head of School for Finance, CFO-COO | Finance & Operations | sjoost@prairieschool.com |
| Klay Shannon | Director of Information Services | Technology | kshannon@prairieschool.com |
| Corey Brandt | Director of Safety | Facilities & Safety | cbrandt@prairieschool.com |
| Callie Atanasoff | Director of Philanthropy and Engagement | Development | catanasoff@prairieschool.com |
| Jason Atanasoff | Athletic Director | Athletics | jatanasoff@prairieschool.com |
| Susan Holum | Head of Primary School | Primary School Administration | sholum@prairieschool.com |
| Kathy Boero | Head of Middle School & Associate Head of School | Middle School Administration | kboero@prairieschool.com |
| Mari Grobschmidt | Head of Upper School | Upper School Administration | mgrobschmidt@prairieschool.com |
Key Initiatives at a Glance
- Managing the 1:1 device program for Chromebooks and iPads across all grade levels.
- Optimizing Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals and Google Classroom for instructional delivery and collaboration.
- Expanding and maintaining hands-on learning within the STEM Wonder Lab, including robotics, 3D printing, and coding.
- Sustaining the PowerSchool student information system for accurate data management and family communication.
- Ensuring continuous maintenance and security upgrades for campus facilities and operational systems.
What Companies Can Sell to The Prairie School
| Who Can Sell Here | Current Initiative | Operational Pressure | Seller Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device Management Platforms | Managing 1:1 Chromebook and iPad deployment for grades K-12. | Ensuring consistent device performance and troubleshooting support across a large fleet. | Offer solutions for device monitoring, remote management, and efficient technical support. |
| Processing account setups and distribution for new student devices. | Streamlining onboarding processes for devices and digital accounts for new students. | Provide tools for automated account provisioning and simplified device rollout. | |
| Learning Management System (LMS) Integrators | Utilizing Google Classroom as the primary LMS for grades 2-12. | Maximizing instructional impact and data synchronization within the Google Workspace ecosystem. | Present services for optimizing Google Classroom workflows and integrating third-party tools. |
| Educational Software Providers | Leveraging Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals for daily student and staff workflow. | Managing user licensing transitions and ensuring full access to productivity tools. | Propose supplementary software that enhances specific Google Workspace functionalities. |
| STEM Education Solution Providers | Operating the Wonder Lab with 3D printers, laser cutters, and robotics equipment. | Sustaining advanced equipment and providing updated curriculum for STEM programs. | Supply new STEM educational tools, consumables, and training for advanced fabrication and robotics. |
| Delivering coding instruction in Python, HTML, CSS, and AP-level courses. | Keeping coding curriculum relevant and engaging for various skill levels. | Offer coding platforms, curriculum development, or instructor professional development. | |
| Student Information System (SIS) Support | Maintaining and updating PowerSchool for student records, health, and contact information. | Ensuring data accuracy and secure access for administrators, parents, and students. | Propose integration services for PowerSchool or specialized modules for data analytics. |
| Campus Facilities Management Systems | Ongoing maintenance of HVAC, plumbing, classroom equipment, and security systems. | Coordinating routine repairs, preventative maintenance, and immediate replacements across campus. | Offer integrated facilities management software or specialized maintenance services. |
| Security and Access Control Vendors | Implementing camera and security upgrades across the campus. | Ensuring consistent security protocols and responsive incident management. | Provide advanced surveillance systems, access control solutions, or security consulting services. |
| Classroom AV & Presentation Systems | Equipping classrooms with projectors, large-format TVs, and streaming devices. | Ensuring seamless content sharing and device compatibility during lessons. | Supply updated AV equipment, installation services, or unified control systems. |
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Why Companies Should Consider Selling to The Prairie School
- The school actively manages a 1:1 device program, indicating continuous procurement and support needs for student devices.
- Current reliance on Google Workspace for Education and PowerSchool suggests ongoing licensing, integration, and optimization opportunities.
- The Wonder Lab represents a commitment to advanced STEM education, requiring specialized equipment, software, and instructional resources.
- Continuous campus facilities maintenance and security upgrades create regular opportunities for service and technology providers.
- The school's independent status allows for agile decision-making and direct engagement with vendors.
1. 1:1 Device Program Management
What The Prairie School Is Doing
The Prairie School maintains a comprehensive 1:1 device program, distributing iPads to Primary School students (K-1) and Chromebooks to students in grades 2-12. The Technology Department supports these devices, and students in grades 6-12 retain ownership of their Chromebooks upon graduation. New students entering grades 5-12 in Fall 2025 require account setup and iPad distribution.
Key Buyer Personas
- Director of Information Services (Klay Shannon)
- Head of Primary School (Susan Holum)
- Head of Middle School & Associate Head of School (Kathy Boero)
- Head of Upper School (Mari Grobschmidt)
Operational Challenges
- Maintaining consistent device functionality and connectivity across diverse age groups and varying usage environments.
- Managing device lifecycles, including repairs, replacements, and end-of-life processes for a large student fleet.
- Ensuring secure and appropriate device use both on and off campus.
Relevant Company Categories for The Prairie School
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) Software
- Device Repair and Maintenance Services
- Educational Device Accessories
- Cybersecurity for Endpoints
- Asset Management Solutions
Relevant Companies
Jamf School — A mobile device management solution designed for educational environments.
Why relevant: Provides tools for deploying, securing, and managing Apple devices and can integrate with Google Workspace.
GoGuardian Teacher — A classroom management solution for Chromebooks.
Why relevant: Offers tools for student engagement, device monitoring, and content filtering, supporting the existing Chromebook fleet.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed The Prairie School continues to actively manage its 1:1 device program, supporting both iPads and Chromebooks.
Schools scaling similar programs often encounter challenges with consistent device support and efficient troubleshooting across a mixed device environment.
Many institutions are exploring unified device management platforms to centralize support workflows. Can share insights on how others streamline this if useful."
2. Google Workspace for Education and Google Classroom Optimization
What The Prairie School Is Doing
The Prairie School leverages Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals as the foundational platform for student and staff digital workflows. Google Classroom functions as the primary Learning Management System (LMS) for students in grades 2-12, facilitating online storage, email, calendars, and collaborative document creation.
Key Buyer Personas
- Director of Information Services (Klay Shannon)
- Head of Primary School (Susan Holum)
- Head of Middle School & Associate Head of School (Kathy Boero)
- Head of Upper School (Mari Grobschmidt)
Operational Challenges
- Ensuring optimal integration of all Google Workspace tools for seamless instructional delivery and administrative tasks.
- Managing the transition to Google's updated licensing models, ensuring compliance and cost-effectiveness.
- Maximizing the pedagogical potential of Google Classroom beyond basic assignment management.
Relevant Company Categories for The Prairie School
- Google Workspace Add-ons and Integrations
- Online Learning Platform Enhancements
- Data Analytics for Education
- Teacher Professional Development
- Cloud Security Solutions
Relevant Companies
G-Suite Training for Education — Provides professional development and adoption services for Google Workspace tools.
Why relevant: Supports staff in maximizing the functionality and integration of Google Workspace and Classroom within instruction.
Securly — Offers student safety and wellness solutions for Google-powered devices.
Why relevant: Provides content filtering, student activity monitoring, and suicide prevention tools for the school's digital environment.
Sample Outbound Angle
"It's clear The Prairie School relies heavily on Google Workspace for Education and Google Classroom for its core digital operations.
Organizations optimizing these platforms often face operational hurdles in ensuring all features are fully utilized and staff receive adequate training.
Many independent schools are finding success by implementing targeted professional learning for their Google environments. Worth discussing if this resonates."
3. STEM and Maker Space Program Expansion
What The Prairie School Is Doing
The Prairie School actively utilizes its Wonder Lab, a dedicated maker space equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and robotics equipment (including Lego League and VEX robotics). This lab supports classes in design technology, architectural engineering, and coding (Python, HTML, CSS, and AP-level courses).
Key Buyer Personas
- Director of Information Services (Klay Shannon)
- Head of Middle School & Associate Head of School (Kathy Boero)
- Head of Upper School (Mari Grobschmidt)
- Director of Philanthropy and Engagement (Callie Atanasoff)
Operational Challenges
- Keeping maker space equipment maintained, updated, and stocked with necessary consumables.
- Developing and integrating relevant, engaging STEM curricula that leverage the advanced tools available.
- Managing safety protocols and training for students and staff using specialized machinery.
Relevant Company Categories for The Prairie School
- 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing Suppliers
- Robotics Education Kits and Curriculum
- Laser Cutting and Engraving Equipment
- STEM Curriculum Developers
- Maker Space Consumables and Safety Equipment
Relevant Companies
VEX Robotics — Provides robotics competition platforms and educational kits.
Why relevant: Directly supports the school's existing VEX robotics and Lego League programs, offering upgrades and new challenges.
Dremel 3D — Offers accessible and reliable 3D printing solutions for education.
Why relevant: Provides user-friendly 3D printers and materials, supporting the Wonder Lab's fabrication capabilities.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed The Prairie School's commitment to hands-on STEM education through its Wonder Lab, especially with 3D printing and robotics.
Schools expanding their maker space programs often face challenges in sourcing durable equipment and integrating new technologies into their curriculum.
Many institutions are collaborating with specialized STEM vendors for ongoing equipment maintenance and curriculum enrichment. Happy to share what's working for others."
4. Student Information System (PowerSchool) Management
What The Prairie School Is Doing
The Prairie School uses PowerSchool as its online system to manage family contact information, student health records, and academic history. For the 2025-2026 school year, families are required to review and update their information within the PowerSchool portal by August 19th.
Key Buyer Personas
- Assistant Head of School for Finance, CFO-COO (Steve Joost)
- Director of Information Services (Klay Shannon)
- Head of Primary School (Susan Holum)
- Registrar (Bree Mahone, Assistant Director of Admission/Registrar)
Operational Challenges
- Ensuring data integrity and accuracy across all student and family records.
- Facilitating user-friendly access and updates for parents and staff while maintaining data security.
- Integrating PowerSchool data with other internal systems, such as the LMS or communication platforms.
Relevant Company Categories for The Prairie School
- Student Information System (SIS) Consultants
- Data Integration Services
- Parent Communication Platforms
- School Health Management Software
- Data Security and Compliance Solutions
Relevant Companies
PowerSchool Professional Services — Offers implementation, integration, and optimization services for the PowerSchool platform.
Why relevant: Provides specialized expertise to enhance the school's use of its existing student information system.
SchoolMessenger — A platform for school-to-home communication and emergency notifications.
Why relevant: Can integrate with PowerSchool to streamline parent communication regarding academic updates and health information.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Understood The Prairie School relies on PowerSchool for managing critical student and family data for the 2026 academic year.
Schools often encounter operational pressure ensuring seamless data flow between PowerSchool and other essential systems, or maintaining data integrity during annual updates.
Many organizations are seeking solutions to automate data synchronization and enhance parent engagement through integrated platforms. Would you be open to discussing best practices?"
Final Take
The Prairie School actively navigates a dynamic operational environment, with key initiatives centered on technology integration, STEM education, and essential campus infrastructure. The ongoing management of its 1:1 device program, Google Workspace for Education, and PowerSchool student information system creates continuous needs for system optimization, support, and security.
These operational pressures present clear opportunities for vendors specializing in educational technology, device lifecycle management, advanced STEM resources, and school operational systems. Companies that can demonstrate a clear understanding of these specific initiatives and offer solutions that streamline processes or enhance educational outcomes will find alignment with The Prairie School's current operational priorities.
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Identify school buying signals like grants, contract renewals, and more, find key decision-maker contacts, and reach out to the right schools at the right time with Pintel.ai.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What technology is The Prairie School currently using? The Prairie School utilizes Google Workspace for Education, Google Classroom, and PowerSchool, alongside a 1:1 device program with Chromebooks and iPads.
Who is responsible for technology decisions at The Prairie School? Klay Shannon, the Director of Information Services, oversees technology initiatives and procurement at The Prairie School.
Does The Prairie School have an active device program for students? Yes, The Prairie School implements a 1:1 device program, assigning iPads to K-1 students and Chromebooks to students in grades 2-12.
What operational challenges does The Prairie School face with its student information system? The Prairie School faces challenges in maintaining data integrity and ensuring secure, user-friendly access for PowerSchool records and updates.
Is The Prairie School investing in STEM education? Yes, The Prairie School actively uses and maintains its Wonder Lab for STEM education, featuring robotics, 3D printing, and coding programs.