Systems & Technical Support
Using DOE information technology applications
Education Officers utilize computers and various IT systems in their daily work. The exam covers your ability to understand when and why to use different systems, troubleshoot basic issues, and support staff in using technology effectively.
Key DOE Systems
These are the major information technology applications referenced in the exam materials:
- •ATS (Automate the Schools) — Student enrollment and registration
- •SESIS (Special Education Student Information System) — IEP management and special ed services
- •STARS — Staffing and human resources
- •FAMIS — Facilities management and work orders
- •APRIS — Personnel and payroll
- •Galaxy/FMS — Financial management
- •Power BI — Data visualization and reporting dashboards
- •COGNOS — Data warehousing and business intelligence
- •CAP — Centralized accountability platform
- •UPK Data Management System (Pre-KIDS) — Pre-K data
- •GTS — General technology support
Microsoft Office Proficiency
Several selective certifications require advanced knowledge of Microsoft tools. The exam may test your understanding of when to use specific features:
- •Excel: VLOOKUP, IF statements, Pivot Tables for data analysis
- •Access: Database management, queries, forms, reports
- •Word: Report formatting, mail merge, document templates
- •PowerPoint: Presentations for stakeholder meetings and training
SQL & Data Queries
For data-heavy roles, Education Officers may need to query databases directly. SQL (Structured Query Language) is used for joining tables, filtering records, aggregating data, and creating stored procedures. Understanding basic query logic helps in formulating data requests even if you are not writing queries directly.
Supporting End Users
Part of the role involves helping school staff use technology systems correctly. This requires patience, clear instructions, and the ability to translate technical concepts into plain language.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Know which system handles which function: ATS=enrollment, SESIS=special ed, STARS=staff, FAMIS=facilities
- ✓Excel skills tested: VLOOKUP, IF statements, Pivot Tables
- ✓SQL basics: joins, primary/foreign keys, stored procedures
- ✓Power BI is used for data visualization and dashboards
- ✓Technical support means translating complex processes into clear instructions
Exam Tip
You likely won't be asked to write SQL or build a Pivot Table during the exam. Instead, questions will test whether you know WHICH system or tool to use for a given task.
Visual Mnemonic
Create a vivid picture-based memory hook for this concept so the main rules and patterns are easier to recall during the exam.
Current Focus
Systems & Technical Support