Menahga High Five Implementation History

1. Menahga High FiveImplementation History Timeline Resource purchasing Textbooks E2T2 Grant Infrastructure Google Apps Literacy Aid

2. Menahga High Five Initiative Competencies, Strategies, Understandings, Values, Pathways to Success The mission of Menahga School District #821, is to provide opportunities for all students to become life-long learners with the necessary competencies, skills, understandings, and value to contribute to and succeed in a changing society. FAQ

3. Will the wireless network at school be able to handle all of the devices? We have been working with West Central Communications to upgrade our wireless system. Once this is complete we will have more than enough band width to meet the needs of our increased need for wireless connections. The iPads will not be provided to the students until this process is complete. Our goal is for it to be done the 2nd week in March of 2013.

4. How will the District train the teachers? The District has worked to create the framework to provide support and training to our staff. We have Smart boards in each class room and our staff have been using Google Docs and continue to improve our abilities to use that programming. We have provided and will continue to provide training using iPads and technology by using services provide by Tierney Brothers.

5. How are the Internet filters used with the iPads? The internet filter for our iPads will be the same filter we currently use for our internet content at our school. This will limit our students ability to access inappropriate internet sites. This will also include monitoring by the teachers and staff at the high school. When students are at home the iPad filter will be whatever the home filter is for any other device in the home. This will require parent monitoring.

6. If my Child is PSEO, can they still access a school iPad? In order for students to have access to a School owned iPad they must attend at least one class on site at Menahga High school.

7. How will cyber bullying issues be addressed? The Menahga Public Schools will continue to work with bullying issues through our Olweus Program. We are currently researching options of providing a rotation class in 8th grade which will address issues and concerns around the use of technology. The policies of the District will apply to the use of iPads in our school as they have in the past. This rotation class will also provide training which will demonstrate the many new opportunities available to our students through the use of technology.

8. Does the District offer an insurance option program for the iPads? • Yes there are options for our families: • Option 1 • Provide the district proof of your own insurance, you home owners insurance may cover it, check with your agent to be sure • Option 2 • School provided insurance plan – for $40.00 dollars a year the district will provide repairs to the iPad if it is determined that the issue is not an act of vandalism or an intentional act by the student/family. Each time this plan is utilized the student will need to pay $40 to get back on the plan. The $40.00 fee will be an annual fee. There will be a family cap of $120.00 per year. Payment in this plan this spring will also cover the students next year. This plan will allow for one replacement iPad should the technology staff determine that is required. Before a 2nd replacement iPad is issued the parent/guardian will need to pay for the cost of an iPad. • Option 3 • Families can chose to provide a check to the District for the cost of the iPad and accessories, when the iPad is returned in good working condition the money will be refunded to the family

9. Who is responsible for any damages and or losses? As with any other school provided materials, textbooks and resources students are responsible for damages or losses that may occur. (We suggest strongly considering an insurance option)

10. Should we consider investing in a wireless keyboard? Students will use the iPad keyboard feature. Depending on the student’s previous experience with keyboarding and preference they may choose to use that as an option. The District will not provide one for the students. We anticipate that most students will adapt to and prefer the iPad keyboard.

11. Does it make sense to get a stylus for writing on the iPad for various activities? We do not require students to purchase one at this time. If a student finds it useful, they may purchase one on their own.

12. What method is the District using to allow students to access their saved documents? All Menahga High School students have a Google Account. They can create and save documents and projects on the Google Drive. This allows students to have access to their work from any internet connection. Drop Box may be another alternative students can use.

13. What if students experience technical problems? Students who have an iPad that does not work need to report the problem to their 1st hour teacher. A referral will be sent to our Technology person. If available a loaner iPad may be provided until the student’s iPad is working.

14. Will the only method of security be a password? Students need to use their 4 digit lunch code as their password on their iPad. This is the only security students have to prevent others from accessing their information. It is important for students to set and use their passwords!

15. What options do we have if we do not have internet at home? Students will have access to the school internet system before and after school as well as lunch time. Students can access internet from local sources. If this is not possible students will need to make sure they have the materials on their iPad before they leave school for the day.

16. What if we do not want to have our student bring an iPad home? Students will be provided access to an iPad during the school day. Any assignments or work that needs to be completed will have to be done using home computer systems or pen/paper methods.

17. Questions ?