My Story

I kept hearing the same thing from adults when I first started volunteering: complaints. Phones, games, and distractions were condemned by parents, but no one was really educating children how to use technology properly. I began to think differently at that point. Perhaps the lack of direction was the problem rather than the tools.

That thought stayed with me, particularly after I started participating in air rifle sports. I gained knowledge of structure, safety, and discipline. A loaded air rifle should never be given to someone without first demonstrating proper handling techniques. The same should apply to technology. However, that phase is absent in schools.

Then, a lockdown at Apalachee High School, which is only thirty minutes away from me, struck even closer to home. Someone I knew had a cousin inside. It gave the sense of school safety. That moment brought everything together, including the value of early education, responsible access, and the fact that the way we are taught to utilize items like weapons and technology isn't the problem.

I began to realize how technology and safety could coexist, but only if we are taught the proper techniques. Examples include fingerprint sensors for secure gun access and artificial intelligence (AI) for equitable sports grading.

I founded CtrlEdu with the intention of providing children with the framework and mentality they need to take charge, not be controlled.